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Software Application Insufficient to Substantially Transform Existing Hardware Components Into a Visitor Management System

Client Alert | 1 min read | 05.19.17

In a Final Determination published in the Federal Register today, Customs & Border Protection held that application software installed on existing computers and on an ID scanner manufactured in China did not substantially transform the individual elements (IS scanner, labels, printer and barcode scanner) of the Visitor Management System. The scanners and printers functioned as such when imported, and the software, while defining a specific use, did not change the basic function of the hardware. Although the FAR contemplates that an “end product” offered under a TAA-covered contract should have a single country of origin, the CBP found each element of the VMS retained its individual country of origin, two of which were from China, a non-designated country.

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Client Alert | 4 min read | 07.02.25

FTC Orders Divestitures in Retail Fuel Outlet Deal and Signals a Return to More Standard Remedy Discussions

Merger consent orders are back at the FTC, and the FTC’s most recent action showcases how the current leadership is analyzing divestiture proposals. Last week, the FTC approved a proposed consent agreement in Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.’s (ACT) acquisition of retail fuel outlets from Giant Eagle, Inc. that paired standard retail divestitures with a “prior notice” requirement that ACT notify the agency of future acquisitions in certain markets regardless of size. This FTC has signaled greater acceptance of remedies than the prior administration, and this most recent consent puts that on display, with Commissioner Meador providing merging parties guidance on designing effective remedies....