CBP to Launch CAPE Tool for IEEPA Duty Refunds on April 20

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced the upcoming launch of a new automated process to support refunds of duties imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This development represents a significant step forward in streamlining the refund process following recent court-ordered actions.

Beginning April 20, 2026, CBP will deploy the first phase of the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) tool within the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Portal.

Key Updates:

• Phase 1 rollout begins April 20: CAPE will initially apply to certain unliquidated entries and entries liquidated within the past 80 days.
• Consolidated refund processing: Refunds of IEEPA duties (including interest) will be processed in aggregate, rather than on an entry-by-entry basis.
• ACE Portal required: Importers of Record (IORs) and authorized brokers must submit CAPE Declarations through the ACE Portal and ensure bank account information is on file to receive refunds.

What This Means:

The CAPE process introduces a more efficient, centralized mechanism for handling IEEPA duty refunds. Once a CAPE Declaration is submitted, CBP will remove the applicable IEEPA tariff classification, recalculate duties, and proceed with liquidation or reliquidation. Refunds will then be issued on a consolidated basis by importer (or designated party) and liquidation date.

CBP has indicated that CAPE will be implemented in phases, with additional functionality expected in future releases to address more complex entry scenarios.

CBP has encouraged importers and brokers to ensure they are prepared to utilize the ACE Portal, including maintaining active accounts and refund payment details. Additional guidance is expected as CAPE continues to roll out. For additional details on CAPE functionality and filing requirements, please refer to CBP’s official notice.

KWE will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.

If you have any questions regarding this update or require assistance, please contact your KWE representative.

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