U.S. Government Shutdown Update – 2025

On October 1, 2025, a shutdown of the U.S. government started as a result of a new funding bill not being passed.

General Overview

Many federal employees are furloughed, and non-essential activities were halted. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is fully operational, while other government agencies involved with imports and exports may be operating with reduced staff and services.

Details

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

On October 1, 2025, in a teleconference with the trade, CBP reassured that they are “Open for Business”, fully staffed and operational. Despite the shutdown, CBP is processing customs entries and other trade-related activities as usual. They are prepared to implement any new tariffs that are announced during the shutdown, including the Section 232 Timber/Lumber tariffs, which are set to begin on October 14.

Partner Government Agencies

Other government agencies involved in the import and export of goods, such as the FDA, USDA, EPA, Fish & Wildlife, and others, are operating with reduced staff but continue to process import declarations.

FDA – Food and Drug Administration

According to the FDA website, the agency will continue vital activities, including the screening of food and medical products imported into the U.S.

BIS – Bureau of Industry and Security

Per the BIS website, BIS and its interagency partners will prioritize review of license applications submitted through the SNAP-R system that are urgently required to protect U.S. national security and the safety of life and property (for example, exports in support of U.S. military operations and those of our allies and partners around the world). 

DDTC – Directorate of Defense Trade Controls

According to the DDTC website, services are significantly curtailed, including Defense Export Control and Compliance System (DECCS) submissions for registrations and licenses (including batch submissions).

OFAC – Office of Foreign Assets Control

According to the OFAC website, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) will only process applications and queries that satisfy an appropriate exception (e.g., to ensure the safety of human life or the protection of property). OFAC will hold all other licensing-related submissions until Congress restores appropriations.

Have Questions?

Contact your local NNR Representative