HSU 2604 updates HTS flags for USDA organic program and modifies HTS used for the Argentina beef quota, affecting import entry declarations.

Harmonized System Update (HSU) 2604, created on February 13, 2026, modifies 27 harmonized tariff records and 143 ABI records. Two key areas are affected: (1) USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Organic Program (NOP) HTS code flag changes, and (2) Argentina Beef Quota HTS updates.

For customs brokers and trade compliance teams, both elements are directly relevant to how import entries are coded and how duties and quotas are ultimately assessed.

1) AMS NOP HTS flag changes

HSU 2604 incorporates changes to HTS flags used to identify products subject to the USDA National Organic Program. These flags are used in ACE to trigger PGA (Partner Government Agency) data requirements and to ensure that organic products comply with AMS regulations. While the bulletin does not list specific HTS numbers, it confirms that multiple tariff records have been updated.

Impact:

• Entries for organic products must now use the updated HTS flags to avoid PGA rejects or compliance issues.
• Incorrect flagging can lead to holds, delays, or potential penalties if organic claims are not properly supported.
• Although the duty rate itself may not change, the presence or absence of an NOP flag can affect admissibility and documentation requirements, which are integral to compliant entry processing.

Required actions:

• Retrieve the detailed list of NOP-related HTS flag changes referenced in CSMS #67645994.
• Update internal HTS databases and broker software so that the correct NOP flags are automatically applied when classifying organic products.
• Train entry staff to recognize which HTS codes now carry NOP flags and ensure that corresponding AMS data elements and documentation are provided at time of entry.

2) Argentina Beef Quota HTS updates

HSU 2604 also updates HTS codes associated with the Argentina Beef Quota. Quota-related HTS provisions determine whether imports of beef from Argentina enter under in-quota tariff rates or face higher over-quota duties. The bulletin directs users to a White House presidential action titled “Ensuring Affordable Beef for the American Consumer,” which likely sets or modifies the quota structure, eligible HTS lines, and possibly the applicable duty rates or TRQ conditions.

Impact:

• The specific HTS codes used to claim quota benefits for Argentina-origin beef may have changed, or new quota subheadings may have been created.
• Misclassification between quota and non-quota HTS lines can result in incorrect duty assessment (e.g., paying higher over-quota rates when in-quota treatment is available, or vice versa).
• Brokers must ensure that entries for Argentina beef use the correct HTS and any associated Chapter 99 or quota provisions specified in the presidential action.

Required actions:

• Review the presidential action at the provided White House link to identify the exact HTS subheadings and quota parameters for Argentina beef.
• Confirm whether any new quota HTS lines, Chapter 99 provisions, or rate differentials (in-quota vs. over-quota) have been introduced or modified.
• Update classification tools and SOPs for Argentina-origin beef to ensure that the correct HTS and quota indicators are used on entries.
• Coordinate with importers to confirm eligibility for quota treatment and to plan shipments in line with quota availability.

Timing and implementation:

HSU 2604 is dated February 13, 2026, and such HSUs are generally effective as of their implementation in ACE. Brokers should treat these changes as active from that date unless the underlying presidential action or CSMS guidance specifies a different effective date.

In summary, HSU 2604 is actionable for import operations because it changes HTS records and flags that directly affect how entries are coded for organic products and Argentina beef quota shipments. Brokers must update systems and procedures to ensure correct HTS, flags, and quota coding so that duties and quota treatments are properly calculated and entries are accepted without delay.