Importation of Burmese Gemstones Now Banned
Published: November 3, 2008
On July 29, 2008, the Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE (Junta's Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act of 2008 became law, banning the importation of gemstones, most notably jadeite and rubies, from Burma (Myanmar) into the U.S. The ban on gemstones is only a portion of the sanctions imposed by the act. The sanctions are targeted at the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), the ruling military regime in Burma, because of their reported human-rights violations. According to the act, profits from the sale of Burmese gemstones "enrich the SPDC."
Burmese jadeite and rubies that were in the U.S. before the ban can still be sold here. The ban does not apply to gems that are brought into the country for personal use. Now, all non-Burmese jadeite and rubies must be coded according to new Harmonized Tariff System codes before they can enter the country.
To learn more, visit www.govtrack.us, and search "P.L. 110-286" in the "Bill Search" field. --Kristin Sutter
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