US Targets Tariff Evasion, Warns Cabinet Importers

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and federal prosecutors have initiated strong enforcement actions against companies accused of circumventing U.S. trade laws concerning imported cabinets and vanities. The American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance (AKCA) is cautioning that all entities within the supply chain, including sellers of cabinets, could face criminal prosecution if they fail to scrutinize sourcing practices and verify product origins.

Under the Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA), CBP possesses broad authority to investigate violations and impose substantial penalties. Recent actions include the seizure of Chinese-origin cabinets at the Port of Norfolk, which were misclassified and undervalued to evade duties. In one instance, a shipment declared as 10 cabinets valued at $500 was found to contain 781 cartons worth over $120,000.

Federal prosecutors have also charged companies with conspiring to evade over $109 million in customs duties. One individual involved in the alleged scheme remains in federal custody, while CBP has issued a notice seeking approximately $222.5 million related to the alleged duty evasion.

These enforcement efforts align with the Trump administration's intensified focus on enforcing U.S. trade laws. As of October 2025, these products are subject to a 25 percent tariff, scheduled to increase to 50 percent in January 2027. The AKCA urges all businesses in the supply chain to conduct thorough due diligence on their sourcing and ensure compliance with U.S. customs laws.

AKCA President Betsy Natz emphasized that companies and individuals can face personal liability and significant civil and criminal penalties for tariff evasion. Ignorance of the law is not a defense under EAPA, and the U.S. Department of Justice is increasing its efforts to combat customs fraud.