94-3212. Foreign Donation of Agricultural Commodities  

  • [Federal Register Volume 59, Number 30 (Monday, February 14, 1994)]
    [Unknown Section]
    [Page 0]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 94-3212]
    
    
    [[Page Unknown]]
    
    [Federal Register: February 14, 1994]
    
    
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    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
    Commodity Credit Corporation
    
    7 CFR Part 1499
    
     
    
    Foreign Donation of Agricultural Commodities
    
    AGENCY: Commodity Credit Corporation, USDA.
    
    ACTION: Proposed rule.
    
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    SUMMARY: This proposed rule would establish regulations governing the 
    donation of agricultural commodities by Commodity Credit Corporation 
    for distribution in foreign countries pursuant to section 416(b) of the 
    Agricultural Act of 1949, or the Food for Progress Act of 1985.
    
    DATES: Comments on the proposed rule must be submitted by March 16, 
    1994.
    
    ADDRESSES: Comments should be submitted to: Director/PAD, Foreign 
    Agricultural Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 14th and 
    Independence Ave., SW., room 4079-S, Washington, DC 20250-1000.
        All comments will be available for public inspection during regular 
    business hours in room 4079-S, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 14th and 
    Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
    Director/PAD, Foreign Agricultural Service, United States Department of 
    Agriculture, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-
    1000; telephone (202) 720-3573.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This proposed rule is issued in conformance 
    with Executive Order 12866. Based on information compiled by the 
    Department, it has been determined that this proposed rule:
        (1) Would have an annual effect on the economy of less than $100 
    million;
        (2) Would not adversely affect in a material way the economy, a 
    sector of the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the 
    environment, public health or safety, or State, local, or tribal 
    governments or communities;
        (3) Would not create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere 
    with an action taken or planned by another agency;
        (4) Would not alter the budgetary impact of entitlements, grants, 
    user fees, or loan programs or rights and obligations of recipients 
    thereof; and
        (5) Would not raise novel legal or policy issues arising out of 
    legal mandates, the President's priorities, or principles set forth in 
    Executive Order 12866.
        This proposed rule deals primarily with requirements imposed upon 
    foreign governments and non-profit entities distributing relief 
    supplies overseas. Therefore, the proposed rule does not have a 
    significant impact upon a substantial number of small business entities 
    and Regulatory Impact Statement was not prepared. A copy of this 
    proposed rule has been sent to the Chief Counsel, Office of Advocacy, 
    U.S. Small Business Administration.
    
    Paperwork Reduction Act
    
        This proposed rule contains information collections which are 
    subject to review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under 
    the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 (44 U.S.C. chapter 35). The 
    sections requiring information collections are shown below with an 
    estimate of the annual reporting and recordkeeping burdens. Included in 
    the estimate is the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing 
    data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing 
    and reviewing the collection of information.
    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           Estimated                 Estimated    Estimated 
                             annual       Annual     burden per     annual  
           Section         number of    frequency     response      burden  
                          respondents                 (hours)      (hours)  
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    7 CFR 1499.5:                                                           
        Existing\1\.....           35          N/A           56         1960
        Incl. proposed                                                      
         rule...........           30          N/A           40         1200
    7 CFR 1499.8:                                                           
        Existing........           25          N/A            1           25
        Incl. proposed                                                      
         rule...........           25          N/A            1           25
    7 CFR 1499.9:                                                           
        Existing........           25          N/A            8          200
        Incl. proposed                                                      
         rule...........           25          N/A            8          200
    7 CFR 1499.11:                                                          
        Existing........           21          N/A            4           84
        Incl. proposed                                                      
         rule...........           21          N/A            4           84
    7 CFR 1499.14:                                                          
        Existing........            5          N/A            2           10
        Incl. proposed                                                      
         rule...........            5          N/A            2           10
    7 CFR 1499.16:                                                          
        Existing........           25            2           24         1200
        Incl. proposed                                                      
         rule...........           25            2           24         1200
          Total Burden Hours Including Proposed Rule=2719                   
          Total Existing Burden Hours=3479                                  
          Net Change in Burden Hours=(760)                                  
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\Existing reporting and recordkeeping burdens refer to those          
      requirements that appear in the current standard form section 416(b)  
      and Food for Progress agreements.                                     
    
        As required by Section 3504(h) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 
    1980, FAS has submitted a copy of this proposed rule to OMB for its 
    review of these information collection requirements. Other 
    organizations and individuals desiring to submit comments regarding 
    this burden estimate or any aspects of these information collection 
    requirements, including suggestions for reducing the burdens, should 
    direct them to the Acting General Sales Manager, FAS, USDA, at the 
    address above, and to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, 
    OMB, New Executive Building, Washington, DC 20503, Attention: Desk 
    Officer for the Foreign Agricultural Service.
        This rule is not subject to the provisions of Executive Order 12372 
    which requires intergovernmental consultation with state and local 
    officials. See the notice related to 7 CFR part 3015, subpart V, 
    published at 46 FR 29115 (June 24, 1983).
        This proposed rule has been reviewed under the Executive Order 
    12778, Civil Justice Reform. The proposed rule would have pre-emptive 
    effect with respect to any state or local laws, regulations, or 
    policies which conflict with such provisions or which otherwise impede 
    their full implementation. The proposed rule would not have retroactive 
    effect. Administrative proceedings are not required before parties may 
    seek judicial review.
        The Department of Agriculture is committed to carrying out its 
    statutory and regulatory mandates in a manner that best serves the 
    public interest. Therefore, where legal discretion permits, the 
    Department actively seeks to promulgate regulations that promote 
    economic growth, create jobs, are minimally burdensome and are easy for 
    the public to understand, use or comply with. In short, the Department 
    is committed to issuing regulations that maximize net benefits to 
    society and minimize costs imposed by those regulations. This principle 
    is articulated in Executive Orders 12291 and 12498. The Department 
    applies this principle to the full extent possible, consistent with 
    law.
        The Department has developed and reviewed this regulatory proposal 
    in accordance with these principles. Nonetheless, the Department 
    believes that public input from all interested persons can be 
    invaluable to ensuring that the final regulatory product is minimally 
    burdensome and maximally efficient. Therefore, the Department 
    specifically seeks comments and suggestions from the public regarding 
    any less burdensome or more efficient alternative that would accomplish 
    the purposes described in the proposal. Comments suggesting less 
    burdensome or more efficient alternatives should be addressed to the 
    agency as provided in this Proposed Rule.
        This proposed rule would govern the donation of agricultural 
    commodities overseas pursuant to section 416(b) of the Agricultural Act 
    of 1949 (7 U.S.C. 1431(b)) and the Food for Progress Act of 1985 (7 
    U.S.C. 1736o). These regulations contain many provisions that have been 
    standard terms of agreements with recipients, i.e., Cooperating 
    Sponsors, for a number of years. As of October 1, 1991, the Agency for 
    International Development no longer is a signatory to section 416(b) 
    program agreements and pursuant to E.O. 12752, 56 FR 8255, the 
    Secretary of Agriculture was delegated the President's responsibilities 
    under the Food for Progress Act. Accordingly, it is appropriate for the 
    Department of Agriculture to promulgate regulations to govern 
    operations under these two programs.
        Generally, the regulatory provisions herein would apply equally to 
    both programs; however, certain provisions dealing with the sale of 
    commodities and the use of local currencies generated from such sales 
    apply only to the section 416(b) program.
        Interested parties should carefully read the full proposed rule. Of 
    particular note are the following points:
        1. Nominations of shipping agents for Cooperating Sponsors 
    participating in the Food for Progress Act will be made to USDA in 
    conformity with the conflict of interest provisions currently 
    applicable only to section 416(b) and of the Agricultural Trade 
    Development and Assistance Act of 1954 (Pub. L. 480). This will place 
    all USDA concessional export programs on the same basis regarding 
    conflict of interest reviews in connection with shipping agents. In 
    this regard, the proposed regulations include limitations on 
    commissions that may be paid to shipping agents that follow the 
    limitations currently proposed for shipping agents participating in the 
    title I, Public Law 480 program. See 57 FR 53607, November 12, 1992. 
    Comments received regarding these limitations are presently being 
    reviewed and will also be considered in relation to this proposed rule. 
    These proposed rules, however, would also limit the agents commission 
    to a percentage of the gross freight attributable to the ocean segment 
    of any movement that may be contracted on a through bill of lading or 
    involve obligations at discharge such as bagging grain. This limitation 
    is included because freight charges attributed to inland movements to 
    many destinations receiving section 416(b) and Food for Progress 
    commodities are relatively high due to various difficult conditions in 
    these countries. CCC does not have an effective mechanism to determine 
    the reasonableness of these charges.
        2. These regulations apply only to agreements for the donation of 
    agricultural commodities and not to any sales to Cooperating Sponsors.
        3. Specific criteria are established to govern the approval of 
    agreements or of activities under such agreements. Detailed information 
    is required in the Plan of Operation submitted in connection with a 
    section 416(b) agreement.
        4. The proposed rule contains detailed procedures for the 
    procurement of ocean transportation including requirements for 
    competitive bidding in the fixture of vessels on charter terms.
        5. The regulations include specific guidance for ocean carrier and 
    inland claims and for disposing of commodities unfit for intended use. 
    In this regard, the regulations would adopt procedures similar to those 
    in effect for title II, Public Law 480 shipments and should be familiar 
    to many Cooperating Sponsors.
        6. Responsibility for section 416(b) program oversight in recipient 
    countries falls to the resident or regional Agricultural Attache/
    Counselor or, in the absence thereof, a representative designated by 
    the United States Department of Agriculture.
    
    List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 1499
    
        Agricultural commodities, Exports, Foreign aid.
    
        Accordingly, title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations is proposed 
    to be amended by adding a new part 1499 to read as follows:
    
    PART 1499--FOREIGN DONATION PROGRAMS
    
    Sec.
    1499.1  Definitions.
    1499.2  General purpose and scope.
    1499.3  Eligibility requirements for cooperating sponsor.
    1499.4  Availability of commodities from CCC inventory.
    1499.5  Program agreements.
    1499.6  Criteria for entering into program agreements.
    1499.7  Apportionment of costs.
    1499.8  Ocean transportation.
    1499.9  Restrictions on commodity use and distribution.
    1499.10  Agreement between Cooperating Sponsor and Recipient 
    Agencies.
    1499.11  Liability of the Cooperating Sponsor.
    1499.12  Sales, barter, and use of monetized proceeds and program 
    income.
    1499.13  Usual marketing requirements.
    1499.14  Processing, packaging and labeling of section 416(b) 
    commodities in the foreign country.
    1499.15  Arrangements for entry and handling in the foreign country.
    1499.16  Disposition of commodities unfit for authorized use.
    1499.17  Liability for loss, damage, or improper distribution of 
    commodities--claims and procedures.
    1499.18  Records and reporting requirements.
    1499.19  Termination of program.
    1499.20  Sample documents/guidelines for developing proposals and 
    reports.
    
        Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1431(b); 7 U.S.C. 1736o; E.O. 12752.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.1 Definitions.
    
        Activity--An action undertaken by a Cooperating Sponsor involving 
    the use of agricultural commodities donated under Program Agreements or 
    the use of monetized proceeds.
        Agricultural Counselor or Attache--A United States Department of 
    Agriculture representative stationed abroad responsible for the country 
    where agricultural commodities donated under Program Agreements are to 
    be distributed.
        CCC--The Commodity Credit Corporation.
        Commodities--Agricultural commodities or products donated under 
    Program Agreements.
        Cooperating Sponsor--An entity with which CCC enters into a Program 
    Agreement, including both foreign government and private nongovernment 
    entities.
        Director, P.L. 480-OD--The Director, Pub. L. 83-480 Operations 
    Division, Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA.
        Director, PAD--The Director, Program Analysis Division, Foreign 
    Agricultural Service, USDA.
        Director, PDD--The Director, Program Development Division, Foreign 
    Agricultural Service, USDA.
        Food for Progress Program --The donation of commodities under the 
    authority of the Food for Progress Act of 1985.
        General Sales Manager--General Sales Manager and Associate 
    Administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA, who is the Vice 
    President, CCC.
        KCCO--Kansas City Commodity Office, Agricultural Stabilization and 
    Conservation Service, USDA, P.O. Box 419205, Kansas City, Missouri, 
    64141-6205.
        KCFMO--Kansas City Financial Management Office, Agricultural 
    Stabilization and Conservation Service, USDA, P.O. Box 419205, Kansas 
    City, Missouri, 64141-6205.
        Monetization--The sale of commodities by Cooperating Sponsors.
        Monetized proceeds--The local currency proceeds generated from 
    monetization.
        Plan of Operation--A description of the activities the Cooperating 
    Sponsor will undertake utilizing the donated commodities or monetized 
    proceeds.
        Program income--Money received by the Cooperating Sponsor as a 
    result of carrying out approved activities, including voluntary 
    contributions from recipients of agricultural commodities in the 
    importing country or interest received on monetized proceeds.
        Program Agreement--A foreign donation agreement entered into 
    between CCC and Cooperating Sponsors.
        Recipient agency--An entity located in the importing country which 
    receives commodities or monetized proceeds from a Cooperating Sponsor 
    for the purpose of carrying out responsibilities of the Cooperating 
    Sponsor under a Program Agreement.
        Shipping Agent--Any person engaged by a Cooperating Sponsor to 
    arrange for transportation services.
        Section 416(b) program--The donation of agricultural commodities 
    under the authority of section 416(b) of the Agricultural Act of 1949.
        USDA--The United States Department of Agriculture.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.2  General purpose and scope.
    
        This part contains the general terms governing agreements between 
    CCC and Cooperating Sponsors providing for the donation of agricultural 
    commodities to carry out programs of assistance outside the United 
    States under the authority of section 416(b) of the Agricultural Act of 
    1949, or support of developing countries and countries that have made 
    commitments to introduce or expand free enterprise elements in their 
    agricultural economies under the authority of the Food for Progress Act 
    of 1985. Program Agreements may contain other provisions when CCC 
    determines that such provisions are necessary to effectively carry out 
    a particular Program Agreement. Except as otherwise specified herein, 
    these regulations apply to only donations to Cooperating Sponsors under 
    both the section 416(b) and Food for Progress programs. However, these 
    regulations do not apply to donations to intergovernmental agencies 
    (such as the World Food Program) or organizations unless CCC and such 
    intergovernmental agency or organization enters into a Program 
    Agreement incorporating this part.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.3  Eligibility requirements for Cooperating Sponsor.
    
        All entities registered with the Agency for International 
    Development under 22 CFR part 203, are eligible to be Cooperating 
    Sponsors. Other entities may be requested to furnish CCC evidence 
    sufficient to demonstrate their capabilities to implement proposed 
    activities prior to entering into a Program Agreement.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.4  Availability of commodities from CCC inventory.
    
        CCC will, to the extent practicable, announce prior to the 
    beginning of each fiscal year the types and quantities of agricultural 
    commodities available for donation from CCC inventory. The quality of 
    agricultural commodities donated by CCC and packaging will be in 
    accordance with the specifications set forth in the Program Agreements.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.5  Program Agreements.
    
        (a) Agreements. The Cooperating Sponsor must enter into a written 
    Program Agreement with CCC which will incorporate by reference the 
    terms and conditions set forth in this Part.
        (b) Section 416(b) Plan of Operation. Prior to entering into a 
    section 416(b) Program Agreement, each Cooperating Sponsor shall submit 
    to the Agricultural Counselor or Attache, and to the Director, PDD, a 
    Plan of Operation describing the activities it proposes to undertake. 
    When approved by CCC, the Plan of Operation will be incorporated into 
    the section 416(b) Program Agreement as Attachment A. In case of a 
    conflict between the approved Plan of Operation and other terms of the 
    Program Agreement, such other terms in the Program Agreement will 
    prevail. The Plan of Operation must follow the format and provide the 
    information as follows:
    
    Appendix I to Sec. 1499.5--Section 416(b) Program Plan of Operation 
    (Attachment A)
    
        1. Name and Address of Applicant:
        2. Country:
        3. Kind and Quantity of Commodities Requested:
        4. Delivery Schedule:
        5. Program Description:
        a. Program objectives and expected outcomes, including a 
    description of opportunities and constraints to achieving program 
    objectives and criteria for measuring progress toward these 
    objectives.
        b. Program recipients or participants and how they were chosen.
        c. Detailed description of program methodology and approaches, 
    including, as appropriate:
    
        --plans for distribution, selling commodities, how local 
    currencies will be spent, and administrative of technical persons 
    involved in each phase;
        --transportation and storage systems that will be used to move 
    the agricultural products from the receiving port to the point of 
    distribution, or to where the product is reprocessed, packaged or 
    sold;
        --any reprocessing or repackaging or the commodity;
        --logistics plan demonstrating the adequacy of port, 
    transportation, and storage facilities to deliver commodities to 
    recipients or to sell the commodities, without undue risk of 
    spoilage or waste.
    
        d. Governmental or nongovernmental institutions and entities 
    involved in the program and the extent to which the program will 
    strengthen or increase the capabilities of institutions or entities 
    in the recipient country.
        e. Method of educating recipients or participants of donation 
    source, program requirements, and, where appropriate, preparation 
    and use of the commodity.
        f. Describe records, accountability methods and supervisory 
    activities for controlling and monitoring distribution of products, 
    sales of commodities, and use of generated proceeds. Describe plans 
    for evaluating program outcome.
        g. Information indicating that the host or local government 
    supports the program.
        h. Detailed budget for program, including costs that will be 
    covered by the applicant, other organizations or local governments; 
    which activities monetized proceeds will cover; and any request for 
    USDA administrative funds. The budget should include how costs of 
    administration, storage, transportation, processing and repackaging 
    will be financed.
        6. Use of Funds or Goods and Services Generated:
        When the activity involves the use of monetized proceeds, the 
    receipt of goods or services from the barter of commodities, or 
    program income, the following information must be provided:
        a. The quantity and type of commodities to be sold or bartered;
        b. The amount of monetized proceeds anticipated to be generated 
    from the same, or the value of the goods or services anticipated to 
    be generated from the barter, of the donated agricultural 
    commodities; except that where such amount or value cannot be 
    estimated, the Cooperating Sponsor will describe the method to be 
    used to ensure that a fair return of cash, goods or services will be 
    received for the commodities;
        c. The steps taken to use the private sector in the process of 
    selling commodities;
        d. The amount of program income expected to be generated;
        e. The specific uses of sale proceeds or program income and a 
    timetable for their expenditure;
        f. Procedures for assuring the receipt and deposit of monetized 
    proceeds and program income into a separate special account and for 
    the disbursement of the proceeds and program income;
        g. Information concerning the extent to which any sale or barter 
    of the donated agricultural commodities would displace or interfere 
    with any sales that may otherwise be made; and
        h. The recipient agency, if any, that will be involved in the 
    program and a description of each recipient agency's capability to 
    perform its responsibilities as stated in the Plan of Operation.
        7. Distribution Methods:
        a. A thorough description of the transportation and storage 
    system which will be used to move the agricultural commodities from 
    the receiving port to the point at which distribution is made to the 
    recipient;
        b. A thorough description of any reprocessing or repackaging of 
    the commodities that will take place; and
        c. A logistics plan that demonstrates the adequacy of port, 
    transportation, storage, and warehouse facilities to handle the flow 
    of commodities to recipients without undue spoilage or waste.
        8. Duty Free Entry:
        Information indicating that commodities to be directly 
    distributed to recipients will be imported and distributed free from 
    all customs, duties, tolls, and taxes.
        9. Economic Impact:
        Information indicating that the commodities can be imported and 
    distributed without negative impact upon domestic production, prices 
    and marketing of same or like products.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.6  Criteria for entering into Program Agreements.
    
        (a) Section 416(b). (1) In determining whether to enter into a 
    section 416(b) Program Agreement, CCC will give priority consideration 
    to the donation of commodities to support activities designed to meet 
    emergency situations, followed by non-emergency humanitarian feeding 
    activities, and, finally, activities using monetized proceeds. Within 
    this prioritization, CCC will consider the following evaluation 
    criteria:
    (i) Applicant Capability
        (A) Organizational experience and current institutional capacity to 
    implement and manage the type of program proposed (targeted food 
    distribution, targeted food distribution and monetization, or 
    monetization for economic and other development activities).
        (B) Experience working in the targeted country.
        (C) Experience and capability level of personnel who will be 
    responsible for implementing and managing the program.
    (ii) Quality and technical soundness of proposal
        (A) Assessment of need and rationale are well presented and 
    demonstrate actual need.
        (B) Program objectives and expected outcomes are reasonable and 
    realistic and show an understanding of the opportunities and 
    constraints to achieving the program objectives.
        (C) Plan for achieving program objectives is completely and clearly 
    described and is logical for the type of program being implemented and 
    includes, where appropriate, the following:
        (1) Description of transportation mechanisms, facilities, storage 
    and warehousing plans, distribution methods, recipients or 
    participants, and local institutions or entities involved with the 
    project.
        (2) Description of how the commodity will be sold and any 
    reprocessing or repackaging.
        (3) For the use of monetized proceeds, description of activities or 
    costs that will be paid for by the generated local currencies.
        (4) Appropriateness and adequacy of organizational structure for 
    the management of the agreement, including the clear articulation of 
    lines of authority and relationships between the applicant and the 
    various institutions and entities it proposes to involve.
        (D) Records and accountability methods for monitoring the program, 
    including the distribution of commodities or use of local currencies, 
    and the method by which the Cooperating Sponsor intends to evaluate the 
    success of the proposal are clearly described and appropriate.
        (E) Demonstrates that the program will contribute to strengthening 
    institutions, entities, or capabilities in the recipient country.
    (iii) USDA Management responsibilities
        USDA assessment of commodity need and acceptability in terms of 
    cost, storability, acceptability, and nutritional impact of proposed 
    commodities.
        (b) Food for Progress. In determining whether to enter into a Food 
    for Progress Foreign Donation Agreement, CCC will consider the extent 
    to which the recipient country is committed to carry out, or is 
    carrying out, policies that promote economic freedom, private domestic 
    production of food commodities for domestic consumption, and the 
    creation and expansion of efficient private domestic markets for the 
    purchase and sale of such commodities. CCC shall require Cooperating 
    Sponsors to submit a Plan of Operation similar to the Plan of Operation 
    described in Sec. 1499.5(b) when CCC determines such would be necessary 
    to identify specific activities to be undertaken by the Cooperating 
    Sponsor in order to accomplish the purposes of the Food for Progress 
    program. In such case, proposed activities will be evaluated in 
    accordance with the criteria set forth at Sec. 1499.6(a)(2).
    
    
    Sec. 1499.7  Apportionment of costs.
    
        (a) CCC will pay that costs of processing, packaging, transporting, 
    handling, and other incidental charges incurred in making commodities 
    available to Cooperating Sponsors.
        (b)(1) Title to all commodities shall pass to the Cooperating 
    Sponsor at the time and place of delivery f.o.b. vessel at U.S. port in 
    the case of bulk grain shipments, or f.a.s. vessel at U.S. port or at 
    the intermodal point for all other commodities.
        (2) The Cooperating Sponsor shall bear all costs and expenses 
    incurred subsequent to the transfer of title, except that, when 
    specifically provided in the Program Agreement or upon the 
    determination by CCC that it is the best interest of the program to do 
    so, CCC may pay or make reimbursement for all or a portion of the 
    reasonable transportation costs from U.S. ports to designated ports or 
    points of entry abroad, and in the case of urgent and extraordinary 
    relief requirements, all or a portion of the reasonable transportation 
    costs from designated points of entry abroad to storage and 
    distribution sites, and reasonable associated storage and distribution 
    costs.
        (3) (i) In the case of countries receiving commodities under the 
    Food for Progress Program, CCC may agree to make payments to 
    Cooperating Sponsors to assist in the administration, sale, and 
    monitoring of food assistance programs to strengthen private sector 
    agriculture in such countries. The Program Agreement will specify the 
    maximum dollar amount of funding that CCC will pay the Cooperating 
    Sponsor for such costs. Payment of the above funds will only be made to 
    the Cooperating Sponsor in such amounts, and for such purposes, as may 
    be specifically approved in writing by the Controller, CCC and the 
    General Sales Manager.
        (ii) CCC may, at its option, advance to the Cooperating Sponsor not 
    more than 85 percent of the total dollar amount specified in the 
    Program Agreement for the costs identified in paragraph (b)(3)(i) of 
    this section. Funds committed but not advanced will be paid on a 
    reimbursement basis. Prior to the advance of any funds by CCC, the 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall submit to the Director, PAD and to the 
    Controller, CCC, a Program Operations Budget detailing all storage, 
    distribution, monitoring and administrative costs to be incurred. The 
    budget line items must represent reasonable costs, for which written 
    approval from the Controller, CCC and the General Sales Manager was 
    obtained prior to program implementation. Any revisions of these 
    expenditures must also be approved by the Controller, CCC and the 
    General Sales Manager.
        (iii) Unless otherwise specifically permitted by CCC, CCC will not 
    advance funds for expenditures by the Cooperating Sponsor that have 
    been incurred prior to the date of the Program Agreement, that will be 
    incurred earlier than 60 days following the date of any previous 
    advance, or that will be incurred after a date specified in the Program 
    Agreement.
        (iv) The Cooperating Sponsor must submit to the Controller, CCC, 
    invoices supporting the charges incurred against the advance, or for 
    which reimbursement is claimed, within 60 days from the date the 
    service is received. All charges must be reasonable and foreign 
    currency transactions must be supported by evidence of the specific 
    exchange rate incurred. A delay in receipt, or non-receipt, of 
    supporting documentation by the Controller, CCC, may result in CCC's 
    refusal to release future advances. The Cooperating Sponsor shall 
    promptly refund to CCC all funds advanced, together with all interest 
    earned on such funds, if either not utilized within 180 days after the 
    advance for purposes for which the funds were advanced, or for which 
    documentation supporting the expenditure is not supplied to CCC.
        (v) All CCC advances must be deposited in an interest bearing 
    account with interest earned on the funds advanced used for the purpose 
    for which the funds were advanced. The Cooperating Sponsor shall submit 
    a monthly Federal Funds Cash Report (SF-272) and a quarterly financial 
    statement to the Controller, CCC, 10 working days past the end of the 
    month or quarter, respectively, detailing the use and status (including 
    interest earned on funds not yet utilized) of all funds advanced by CCC 
    to Cooperating Sponsor.
        (4) If the Program Agreement specifies that CCC will finance only 
    the ocean freight differential (``OFD'') on U.S. flag vessels, the 
    Director, Public Law 480-OD will compute OFD as follows:
        (i) when non-U.S.-flag vessels are offered, the OFD will be the 
    difference between the weighted average freight rate(s) of non-U.S. 
    flag vessel(s) fixed or offered that could carry the quantity of cargo 
    absent the requirement to use U.S.-flag vessels, and the rate for the 
    U.S. flag vessel(s) fixed; or the rate(s) offered (including any lower 
    rates negotiated) by U.S.-flag vessels(s) which could have carried the 
    required tonnage and represents the lowest land cost (U.S. flag basis).
        (ii) When non U.S. flag vessels are not offered, or when offered, 
    have specifications which preclude their use, the rate to be used in 
    computing OFD will be determined by using any market data deemed 
    relevant.
        (iii) When the recipient country employs its own flag vessels or 
    other flag vessels under its control, the non-U.S. flag rate to be used 
    in computing OFD will be determined using any market data deemed 
    relevant.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.8  Ocean transportation.
    
        (a) Cargo Preference. Shipments of commodities donated under the 
    section 416(b) and Food for Progress programs are subject to the 
    requirements of sections 901(b) and 901b of the Merchant Marine Act, 
    1936, regarding carriage on U.S.-flag vessels. CCC will endeavor to 
    meet these requirements separately for each program for each 12-month 
    compliance period.
        (b) Coordination between CCC and the Cooperating Sponsor. When the 
    Program Agreement specifies that the Cooperating Sponsor will arrange 
    ocean transportation:
        (1) KCCO will furnish the Cooperating Sponsor with a Notice of 
    Commodity Availability (Form CCC-512) which will specify the receiving 
    country, commodity, quantity, and date at U.S. port or intermodal 
    delivery point.
        (2) The Cooperating Sponsor will arrange ocean transportation in 
    accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (c) of this 
    section and shall comply with the instructions of CCC regarding the 
    quantity of commodities that must be carried on U.S. flag vessels. U.S. 
    ports of export will be selected on the basis of the lowest cost to 
    CCC.
        (3) The Cooperating Sponsor will complete the Form CCC-512 
    indicating name of steamship company, vessel name, vessel flag and 
    estimated time of arrival at U.S. port, sign and return the completed 
    form to KCCO, with a copy to the Director, Public Law 480-OD. For liner 
    cargoes, if CCC has agreed to pay any part of the ocean transportation, 
    the Form CCC-512 must also contain the ocean freight rate as stated in 
    the Federal Maritime Commission tariff, with tariff identification.
        (4) KCCO will issue instructions to have the commodity shipped 
    f.a.s. or f.o.b. vessel, U.S. port of export, or to an intermodal 
    delivery point, and consigned to the Cooperating Sponsor specified in 
    the Form CCC-512.
        (b) Shipping agents. (1) The Cooperating Sponsor may appoint a 
    shipping agent to assist in the procurement of ocean transportation. If 
    a shipping agent is to be used, the Cooperating Sponsor must nominate 
    the shipping agent in writing to the General Sales Manager, room 4071-
    S, Foreign Agricultural Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 
    Washington, DC 20250-1000. The written nomination shall specify the 
    period of time to be covered by the nomination. A copy of the proposed 
    agency agreement must also be provided. A Cooperating Sponsor may 
    submit a single written nomination for a shipping agent for more than 
    one program or may submit separate written nominations for each 
    program.
        (2) The shipping agent must submit the information and 
    certifications required by 7 CFR 17.5.
        (3) A person may not act as shipping agent for a Cooperating 
    Sponsor unless the Assistant General Sales Manager has notified the 
    Cooperating Sponsor in writing that the nomination is accepted.
        (c) Freight procurement requirements. The following requirements 
    apply when the Cooperating Sponsor arranges ocean transportation and 
    CCC is financing any portion of the ocean freight.
        (1) Freight invitations for bids must be issued for the 
    solicitation of freight offers through the Transportation News Ticker 
    (TNT), New York, plus at least one other means of communication, to 
    assure the broadest possible market coverage and adequate notice to 
    interested parties.
        (2) The Cooperating Sponsor must obtain approval of all invitations 
    for bids as specified in the Program Agreement prior to their issuance.
        (3) Freight invitations for bids must provide: (i) That offers have 
    a canceling date no later than the last contract layday specified in 
    the invitation for bids;
        (ii) that offered rates be quoted in U.S. dollars per metric ton, 
    and if destination bagging or transportation to a point beyond the 
    discharge port is required, offered rates shall separately state the 
    total rates and the portion of the rates attributable to the ocean 
    segment of the movement;
        (iii) that any non-liner U.S. flag vessel 15 years or older must 
    furnish, in addition to any other offered rate, a one way rate to be 
    applicable in the event the vessel is scrapped or transferred to 
    foreign flag registry prior to the end of the return voyage to the 
    United States;
        (iv) specify the procedures for payment of freight, including the 
    party responsible for the freight payments;
        (v) require, in the case of packaged commodities, that U.S. flag 
    carriers specify whether delivery will be direct breakbulk shipment, 
    container shipment, or breakbulk transshipment and identify whether 
    transshipment (including container relays) will be via U.S. or foreign 
    flag vessel;
        (vi) provide that vessels offered subject to Maritime 
    Administration approval will not be accepted; and
        (vii) specify a closing time for the submission of offers and state 
    that late offers will not be accepted.
        (4) In the case of shipments of bulk commodities, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall open offers in public in the United States at the time 
    and place specified in the invitation for bids and consider only offers 
    that are responsive to the invitation for bids without negotiation, 
    clarification, or submission of additional information. All responsive 
    offers received for both U.S. flag and foreign flag service must be 
    presented to KCCO which will determine the extent to which U.S.-flag 
    vessels will be used.
        (5) The Director, Public Law 480-OD, or another official specified 
    in the Program Agreement, must approve all vessel fixtures. The 
    Cooperating Sponsor may fix vessels subject to that approval of the 
    Director, Public Law 480-OD, or such other official. The Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall not confirm a vessel fixture until the Director, Public 
    Law 480-OD, or such other official, advises the Cooperating Sponsor of 
    the required approval and the results of the Maritime Administration's 
    guideline rate review. The Cooperating Sponsor shall not request 
    guideline rate advice from the Maritime Administration.
        (6) Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers may not be employed to 
    carry U.S.-flag shipments.
        (d) Commissions. (1) Total commissions earned on U.S. and foreign 
    flag bookings by all parties arranging vessel fixtures, when any 
    portion of the ocean freight is paid by CCC, shall not exceed 2\1/2\ 
    percent of that portion of the gross freight attributable to the ocean 
    segment of the cargo movement.
        (2) Total commissions to a shipping agent shall not exceed \2/3\ of 
    2\1/2\ percent of that portion of the gross freight attributable to the 
    ocean transportation segment of the movement.
        (3) The Cooperating Sponsor shall require liner carriers to assure 
    that tariffs on file at the Federal Maritime Commission reflect the 
    maximum commissions payable under this paragraph.
        (4) Address commissions are prohibited.
        (e) Contract terms. (1) The Cooperating Sponsor shall assure that, 
    when CCC is paying any portion of the ocean freight, charter parties 
    and liner booking contracts contain clauses that implement the 
    following paragraphs:
        (i) packaged commodities on liner vessels shall be shipped on the 
    basis of full berth terms with no demurrage or despatch;
        (ii) bulk commodities shall be shipped on the basis of vessel load, 
    free out, with demurrage and despatch applicable at load and discharge 
    ports. Laytime accounts are to be settled between the ocean carrier and 
    export elevators at load port and between the ocean carrier and 
    charterers at discharge ports. CCC is not responsible for resolving 
    disputes involving the calculation of laytime or the payment of 
    demurrage or despatch.
        (iii) if the Program Agreement requires the Cooperating Sponsor to 
    open an irrevocable letter of credit for ocean freight, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall be liable for detention of the vessel for loading delays 
    attributable solely to the decision of the ocean carrier not to 
    commence loading because of the failure of the Cooperating Sponsor to 
    establish such letter of credit. Charter parties and liner booking 
    contracts may not contain a specified detention rate. The ocean carrier 
    shall be entitled to reimbursement, as damages for detention, all time 
    so lost, for each calendar day or any part of the calendar day, 
    including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. The period of such delay 
    shall not commence earlier than upon presentation of the vessel at the 
    designated loading port within the laydays specified in the charter 
    party or liner booking contract, and upon notification of the vessel's 
    readiness to load in accordance with the terms of the applicable 
    charter party or liner booking contract. The period of such delay shall 
    end at the time that operable irrevocable letters of credit have been 
    established for ocean freight or the time the vessel begins loading, 
    whichever is earlier. Time calculated as detention shall not count as 
    laytime. Reimbursement for such detention shall be payable no later 
    than upon the vessel's arrival at the first port of discharge.
        (iv) charges attributable to the failure of the vessel to present 
    before the canceling date including, but not limited to inspection, 
    fumigation, and carrying charges, will be for the account of the ocean 
    carrier.
        (v) ocean freight is earned under a charter party when the vessel 
    and cargo arrive at the first port of discharge, Provided, That if a 
    force majeure as described in paragraph (f)(3) below prevents the 
    vessels arrival at the first port of discharge, 95% of the ocean 
    freight is payable or, if the charter party provides for completing 
    additional requirements after discharge such as bagging, stacking, or 
    inland transportation, 85% of the ocean freight is payable, at the time 
    the General Sales Manager determines that such force majeure was the 
    cause of nonarrival; and
        (vi) when the ocean carrier offers delivery to destination ports on 
    U.S.-flag vessels, but foreign-flag vessels are used for any part of 
    the voyage to the destination port, without first obtaining the 
    approval of the Cooperating Sponsor, KCCO, and any other approval that 
    may be required by the Program Agreement, the ocean freight rate will 
    be reduced to the lowest responsive foreign-flag vessel rate offered in 
    response to the same invitation for bids and the carrier agrees to pay 
    CCC the difference between the contracted ocean freight rate and the 
    freight rate offered by such foreign-flag vessel.
        (f) Freight Payment by CCC. When the Program Agreement provides 
    that CCC will pay any portion of the ocean freight:
        (1) 100% of the ocean freight is payable upon receipt of the 
    documents specified in paragraph (g) of this section, unless the 
    charter party or liner booking note provides for completing additional 
    requirements after discharge such as bagging, stacking, or inland 
    transportation, in which case 85% of the ocean freight is payable. The 
    balance of freight remaining will be paid upon receipt of notification 
    from the Cooperating Sponsor that the vessel has fulfilled all the 
    requirements of the charter party or liner booking contract in a 
    successful manner.
        (2) Demurrage will not be paid or reimbursed by CCC.
        (3) CCC will waive the requirement in paragraph (g) of this section 
    for a notice of arrival if the General Sales Manager determines upon 
    submission of evidence on the part of the ocean carrier that the vessel 
    is lost or unable to proceed to destination after completion of loading 
    as a result of one or more of the following causes (force majeure): 
    Damage caused by perils of the sea or other waters; collisions; wrecks; 
    stranding without the fault of the carrier; jettison; fire from any 
    cause; Act of God; public enemies or pirates; arrest or restraint of 
    princes, rulers, or peoples without the fault of the ocean carrier; 
    wars; public disorders; captures; or detention of public authority in 
    the interest of public safety. If the General sales Manager determines 
    that a force majeure prevents the vessels arrival at the first port of 
    discharge, 95% of the ocean freight is payable or, if the charter party 
    provides for completing additional requirements after discharge such as 
    bagging, stacking, or inland transportation, 85% of the ocean freight 
    is payable upon submission of the documents specified in paragraph (g) 
    of this section, except that the notice of arrival need not be 
    submitted. The balance of ocean freight shall not be due or payable.
        (g) Documentation required for payment or reimbursement of freight 
    charges by CCC.
        (1) One copy of completed Form CCC-512;
        (2) Three copies of ``on board'' bills of lading indicating the 
    freight rate and signed by originating carrier;
        (3) National Cargo Bureau vessel hold inspection and certificate of 
    loading as applicable;
        (4) Two signed copies of liner booking note or charter party 
    covering ocean transportation of cargo;
        (5) For charter movements, a notice of arrival at first discharge 
    point, to be submitted by the Cooperating Sponsor;
        (6)(i) Request by the Cooperating Sponsor for reimbursement of 
    ocean freight indicating amount due, accompanied by a certification 
    from the ocean carrier that payment has been made;
        (ii) Request for direct payment of ocean freight to the ocean 
    carrier, indicating amount due; or
        (iii) Request for direct payment of ocean freight differential to 
    the ocean carrier, accompanied by a certification from the carrier that 
    payment of the Cooperating Sponsor's portion of the ocean freight has 
    been received.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.9  Restrictions on commodity use and distribution.
    
        (a) The Cooperating Sponsor may use the donated commodities only in 
    accordance with the terms of the Program Agreement.
        (b) Donated commodities may not be distributed within the importing 
    country on the basis of political affiliation, geographic location, or 
    the ethnic, tribal or religious identify or affiliations of the 
    potential consumers or recipients.
        (c) Donated commodities may not be distributed, handled or 
    allocated by military forces except where such activities are 
    specifically authorized by CCC.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.10  Agreement between Cooperating Sponsor and Recipient 
    Agency(ies).
    
        (a) The Cooperating Sponsor shall, prior to the transfer of any 
    donated commodities, monetized proceeds or program income, enter into 
    and formally execute an agreement with each recipient agency engaged 
    for the purpose of the distribution of commodities or for the 
    implementation of any other approved activity. Copies of such 
    agreements shall be provided to the appropriate Agricultural Counselor 
    or Attache. Such agreements shall include the following terms:
        (1) a requirement that the recipient agency pay the Cooperating 
    Sponsor the value of any commodities, monetized proceeds or program 
    income that is used for purposes not expressly permitted under the Plan 
    of Operation;
        (2) a requirement that the recipient agency pay the Cooperating 
    Sponsor for any commodities, monetized proceeds or program income that 
    is lost, damaged, or misused as result of the recipient agency's 
    failure to exercise reasonable care;
        (3) a provision expressly incorporating the terms and conditions of 
    this part which govern the implementation of the approved Plan of 
    Operation, the use of funds, record keeping, inspection and audit.
        (b) Upon request, CCC may, within its sole discretion, elect to 
    waive the requirement of paragraph (a) of this section where it 
    determines that such an agreement is not feasible or appropriate for 
    any reason, including the nature of the recipient agency, or the amount 
    of commodities, monetized proceeds or program income that may be 
    transferred to the recipient agency. In any case where waiver is 
    granted, however, such waiver shall not otherwise affect or diminish 
    the Cooperating Sponsor's obligations or responsibilities with respect 
    to program commodities, monetized proceeds or program income.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.11  Liability of the Cooperating Sponsor.
    
        (a) The Cooperating Sponsor shall be required to reimburse CCC for 
    all costs incurred by CCC, including the cost of acquisition of the 
    donated commodity where such Cooperating Sponsor has either:
        (1) Failed to export the commodities from the United States;
        (2) Been responsible for the reentry of the commodity into the 
    United States; or
        (3) Used the commodities, monetized proceeds or sale profits in a 
    manner inconsistent with program requirements.
        (b) [Reserved]
    
    
    Sec. 1499.12  Sales, barter, and use of monetized proceeds and program 
    income.
    
        (a) Section 416(b). (1) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(3) of 
    this section, commodities donated under a section 416(b) Program 
    Agreement may be sold or bartered only in accordance with an approved 
    Plan of Operation. Such sales or barters may be approved by CCC on a 
    case-by-case basis for the following purposes only:
        (i) to finance the distribution, handling or processing costs of 
    the donated commodities in the importing country or in a country 
    through which the commodities must be transshipped, or other activities 
    in the importing country that are consistent with providing food 
    assistance to needy people;
        (ii) in the case of sales of commodities furnished to nonprofit and 
    voluntary agencies, or cooperatives, to generate proceeds to be used to 
    transport, store, distribute and otherwise enhance the effectiveness of 
    the use of commodities, and to implement income generating community 
    development, health, nutrition, cooperative development, agricultural 
    program, and other development activities;
        (iii) to cover expenses of the type identified in section 406 of 
    the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954; or
        (iv) for any other use specifically authorized by statute.
        (2) Commodities may be sold or bartered only in the importing 
    country or other country specifically approved by CCC. Monetized 
    proceeds must be expended within either the country of origin or in 
    other countries as necessary to expedite transportation of commodities, 
    or in countries which generally accept the type of currency generated 
    by the sale. Monetized proceeds must be expended within one year of 
    acquisition unless CCC specifically agrees that a longer period is 
    necessary to achieve the purposes of paragraph (a)(1)(i) and (ii) of 
    section.
        (3) Notwithstanding paragraphs (a) (1) and (2) of this section, 
    commodities may be sold or bartered without prior approval of CCC where 
    damage has occurred to the commodity rendering it unfit for the 
    intended program purposes, and sale or barter is necessary to mitigate 
    the loss of the value of the damaged commodity.
        (4) Cooperating Sponsors who sell or barter commodities must enter 
    into a written agreement with the other party to the sale transaction. 
    A copy of the executed agreement must be provided to the Agricultural 
    Counselor or Attache.
        (5) All monetized proceeds shall be deposited into a special 
    interest bearing account for control and monitoring unless interest 
    bearing accounts are prohibited by the laws or customs of the importing 
    country or such requirement would impose an undue burden on the 
    Cooperating Sponsor. Any accrued interest shall be used only for 
    approved activities.
        (6) Cooperating Sponsors shall not be required to monitor, manage, 
    report on, or account for the distribution or use of such sold or 
    bartered commodities after all sales proceeds have been fully deposited 
    in a special account and title to the commodities has passed to buyers 
    or other third parties pursuant to a sale or barter transaction. The 
    sales proceeds and the uses thereof, however, must be monitored, 
    managed, reported and accounted for as provided in the relevant 
    sections of this part 1499.
        (7) Commodities approved for sale or barter need not be imported 
    and sold free of all duties and taxes, but nongovernmental Cooperating 
    Sponsors may negotiate agreements with the host government permitting 
    the duty and tax-free import and sale of such commodities. Even where 
    the Cooperating Sponsor negotiates such exempt status, the prices at 
    which the Cooperating Sponsor sells the commodities to the purchaser 
    shall reflect prices that would be obtained in a competitive commercial 
    transaction, i.e., the prices would include the cost of duties and 
    taxes, so that the amounts normally paid for duties and taxes would 
    accrue for the benefit of the Cooperating Sponsor's approved program.
        (8) No part of the proceeds or services realized from sales or 
    barters may be used for operating and overhead expenses, other than for 
    personnel and administrative costs of local cooperatives. Operating and 
    overhead expenses are costs attributable to the overall administration 
    and management expenses of the Cooperating Sponsor in its regional, 
    national, or U.S. offices, including rent, taxes, insurance, utilities, 
    telephone, office supplies, and depreciation, and in the case of 
    nonprofit private and voluntary agencies and cooperatives, costs of 
    monitoring, evaluation, auditing, and travel within the host country 
    except where such costs are directly related to a specific activity and 
    essential to the effective implementation of the activity.
        (9) The Cooperating Sponsor shall use commercially reasonable 
    procurement practices in purchasing goods or services and in 
    construction activities using monetization proceeds or program income, 
    and shall employ procedures that prevent fraud, self-dealing, and 
    conflicts of interest and provide for free and open competition to the 
    maximum extent practicable. Title to real and personal property 
    acquired with monetization proceeds and program income shall be vested 
    in the Cooperating Sponsor, with the Cooperating Sponsor providing the 
    Controller, CCC with an inventory list of all assets valued at one 
    thousand dollars (USD) or more. The Cooperating Sponsor shall dispose 
    of such property as directed by the Agricultural Counselor or Attache 
    in the event the program terminates or is transferred to another 
    Cooperating Sponsor.
        (10) Monetized proceeds and program income may not be used to 
    acquire, develop, construct, alter or upgrade land, buildings or other 
    real property improvements or structures that are either:
        (i) owned or managed by a church or other organization engaged 
    exclusively in religious activity, or
        (ii) used in whole or in part for sectarian purposes. 
    Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, monetized proceeds or program 
    income may be used to finance repair or rehabilitation of an existing 
    structure owned or managed by a church or organization engaged 
    exclusively in religious activity to the extent necessary to avoid 
    spoilage or loss of donated commodities, provided that the structure is 
    not used in whole or in part for any sectarian purpose while donated 
    commodities are stored in it. The use of monetized proceeds or program 
    income to finance construction of such a structure may be approved in 
    the operational plan or by the Agricultural Counselor or Attache if the 
    structure is needed and will be used for the storage of donated 
    commodities for a sufficient period of time to warrant the expenditure 
    of monetized proceeds or program income and the structure will not be 
    used for any sectarian purpose during this period.
        (b) Food for Progress. Unless the Food for Progress Program 
    Agreement provides otherwise, commodities donated under Food for 
    Progress may be sold within the recipient country without restriction 
    or special procedural requirements.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.13  Usual marketing requirements.
    
        A foreign government Cooperating Sponsor shall provide data showing 
    commercial and non-commercial imports of the types of agricultural 
    commodities requested for the past five years, by country of origin, 
    and an estimate of expected imports of such commodities during the 
    current year. A Program Agreement with a foreign government may include 
    a usual marketing requirement and shall prohibit the re-export of 
    donated commodities, as well as of other related commodities specified 
    in the Program Agreement.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.14  Processing, packaging and labeling of section 416(b) 
    commodities in the foreign country.
    
        (a) Cooperating Sponsors may arrange for the processing of 
    commodities donated under a section 416(b) Program Agreement and for 
    packaging or repackaging prior to distribution. When a third party 
    provides such processing, packaging, or repackaging, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall enter into written agreements for such services. The 
    agreement shall require that the provider of such services (1) shall 
    fully account to the Cooperating Sponsor for all commodities delivered 
    or otherwise be liable for the value of all unaccounted commodities and 
    (2) shall maintain adequate records and submit periodic reports 
    pertaining to performance under the agreements. Copies of the executed 
    agreements shall be provided to the Agricultural Counselor or Attache.
        (b) If, prior to distribution, the Cooperating Sponsor arranges for 
    packaging or repackaging commodities donated under section 416(b), the 
    cartons, sacks, or other containers in which the commodities are packed 
    shall be plainly labeled in the language of the country in which the 
    commodities are to be distributed with the name of the commodity and, 
    except where the donated commodities are to be sold or bartered 
    pursuant to an approved Plan of Operation after processing, packaging 
    or repackaging, that the commodity is furnished by the people of the 
    United States of America and not to be sold or exchanged. If the 
    commodities are not packaged, to the extent practicable, the 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall display banners, posters or other media and 
    provide individual identification cards containing the information 
    prescribed in this paragraph.
        (c) If the packages of commodities donated under section 416(b) are 
    discharged from vessel in a damaged condition, and are repackaged to 
    ensure that the commodities arrive at the distribution point in 
    wholesome condition, CCC will reimburse Cooperating Sponsors who are 
    nonprofit private voluntary organizations and cooperatives for approved 
    expenses incurred for such repackaging. No prior approval is required 
    for such expenses equaling $500 or less. If such expense is estimated 
    to exceed $500, the authority to repackage and incur such expense must 
    be approved by the Agricultural Counselor or Attache in advance of 
    repackaging.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.15  Arrangements for entry and handling in the foreign 
    country.
    
        (a) The Cooperating Sponsor shall make all necessary arrangements 
    for receiving the donated commodities in the recipient country, 
    including obtaining appropriate approvals for entry and transit, and 
    shall ensure that agricultural commodities which are to be distributed 
    to recipients in direct feeding programs shall be admitted duty free 
    and exempt from all taxes. The Cooperating Sponsor shall be responsible 
    for storing and maintaining the commodities from time of delivery at 
    port of entry or point of receipt from originating carrier in such 
    manner as to ensure that the commodities remain in good condition until 
    their distribution, sale or barter.
        (b) The Cooperating Sponsor may use either of the following methods 
    to arrange for the transport, storage, and distribution from designated 
    points of entry or ports of entry when CCC has agreed to pay costs of 
    such services:
        (1) Through bill of lading; or
        (2) Contract directly with suppliers of services, and submit a 
    billing, with supporting documentation, to CCC indicating actual costs 
    incurred. All supporting documentation must be sent to the Director, 
    Public Law 480-OD. Payment will be made, at the option of CCC, in 
    dollars at the exchange rate as of the date of payment by CCC, or in 
    foreign currency.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.16  Disposition of commodities unfit for authorized use.
    
        (a) Prior to delivery to Cooperating Sponsor at discharge port or 
    point of entry. If the commodity is damaged prior to delivery to a 
    governmental Cooperating Sponsor at discharge port or point of entry 
    overseas, the Agricultural Counselor or Attache, or CCC designated 
    representative, shall immediately arrange for inspection by a public 
    health official or other competent authority. A nongovernmental 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall arrange for such inspection of commodities 
    damaged prior to delivery. If the commodity is determined to be unfit 
    for the use authorized in the Program Agreement, the commodities shall 
    be disposed of in accordance with the priority set forth in paragraph 
    (b) of this section. Expenses incidental to the handling and 
    disposition of the damaged commodity shall be paid by CCC from the 
    sales proceeds or from an appropriate CCC account as determined by CCC. 
    The net proceeds of sales shall be deposited with the U.S. Disbursing 
    Officer American Embassy, for the credit of CCC in an appropriate CCC 
    account as determined by CCC. However, if the commodities were donated 
    for monetization programs, the net sales proceeds, after deducting 
    expenses incidental to handling and disposition of the damaged 
    commodity, shall be deposited to the special account established for 
    monetized proceeds, and the Cooperating Sponsor is responsible for 
    documenting the amount of the sales proceeds from the sale of damaged 
    commodities deposited to the special account. The Cooperating Sponsor 
    shall seek guidance from CCC regarding sales proceeds in the event the 
    Cooperating Sponsor executed a sales agreement under which title passed 
    to the purchaser prior to delivery.
        (b) After delivery to Cooperating Sponsor. If after arrival in a 
    foreign country it appears that the commodity, or any part thereof, may 
    be unfit for the use authorized in the Program Agreement, the 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall immediately arrange for inspection of the 
    commodity by a public health official or other competent authority 
    approved by the Agricultural Counselor or Attache. If no competent 
    local authority is available, the Agricultural Counselor or Attache may 
    determine whether the commodities are unfit for the use authorized in 
    the Program Agreement, and, if so, may direct disposal in accordance 
    with paragraphs (b) (1) through (4) of this section. The Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall arrange for the recovery for authorized use of that part 
    designated during the inspection as suitable for authorized use. If, 
    after inspection, the commodity (or any part thereof) is determined to 
    be unfit for authorized use, the Cooperating Sponsor shall notify the 
    Agricultural Counselor or Attache of the circumstances pertaining to 
    the loss or damage. With the concurrence of the Agricultural Counselor 
    or Attache, the commodity determined to be unfit for authorized use 
    shall be disposed of in the following order of priority:
        (1) By transfer to an approved section 416(b) program for use as 
    livestock feeding feed. CCC shall be advised promptly of any such 
    transfer so that shipments from the United States to the livestock 
    feeding program can be reduced by an equivalent amount;
        (2) Sale for the most appropriate use, i.e., animal feed, 
    fertilizer, or industrial use, at the highest obtainable price. When 
    the commodity is sold, all U.S. Government markings shall be 
    obliterated or removed;
        (3) By donation to a governmental or charitable organization for 
    use as animal feed or for other non-food use; or
        (4) If the commodity is unfit for any use or if disposal in 
    accordance with paragraph (b)(1), (2) or (3) of this section is not 
    possible, the commodity shall be destroyed under the observation of a 
    representative of the Agricultural Counselor or Attache, if 
    practicable, in such manner as to prevent its use for any purpose.
    
    Expenses incidental to the handling and disposition of the damaged 
    commodity shall be paid by the Cooperating Sponsor unless it is 
    determined by the Agricultural Counselor or Attache that the damage 
    could not have been prevented by the Cooperating Sponsor under the 
    terms of the Program Agreement. Actual expenses incurred, including 
    third party costs, in effecting any sale may be deducted from the sales 
    proceeds and, except for monetization programs, the net proceeds shall 
    be deposited with the U.S. Disbursing Officer, American Embassy, with 
    instructions to credit the deposit to an appropriate CCC account as 
    determined by CCC. In monetization programs, the gross proceeds shall 
    be deposited in the special interest bearing account and after approved 
    costs related to the handling and disposition of damaged commodities 
    are paid, remaining funds used for purposes of the approved program. 
    The Cooperating Sponsor shall promptly furnish to the Agricultural 
    Counselor or Attache a written report of all circumstances relating to 
    the loss and damage. The report and any supplemental report shall 
    include a certification by a public health official or other competent 
    authority of the exact quantity of the damaged commodity disposed of 
    because it was determined to be unfit for the use authorized in the 
    Program Agreement. A report must also be provided to the Chief, Debt 
    Management Division, KCFMO, of action taken to dispose of commodities 
    unfit for authorized use.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.17  Liability for loss, damage, or improper distribution of 
    commodities--claims and procedures.
    
        (a) Fault of Cooperating Sponsor prior to loading on ocean vessel. 
    If the Cooperating Sponsor fails to have a vessel for loading at the 
    U.S. port of export in accordance with the agreed shipping schedule, 
    the Cooperating Sponsor shall immediately notify KCCO, Chief, Export 
    Operations Division. CCC will determine whether the commodity shall be: 
    Moved to another available outlet; stored at the port for delivery to 
    the Cooperating Sponsor when a vessel is available for loading; or 
    disposed of as CCC may deem proper. The Cooperating Sponsor shall take 
    such action as directed by CCC and shall reimburse CCC for expenses 
    incurred.
        (b) Fault of others prior to loading on ocean vessel. When any 
    damage or loss to the commodity occurs which is attributable to a 
    warehouseman, carrier, or other person between the time title is 
    transferred to a Cooperating Sponsor and the time the commodity is 
    loaded on board vessel at designated port of export, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall immediately notify KCFMO, Chief, Debt Management Office. 
    The Cooperating Sponsor shall promptly assign to CCC any rights to 
    claims which may accrue as a result of such loss or damage and shall 
    promptly forward to CCC all documents pertaining thereto. CCC shall 
    have the right to initiate, prosecute, and retain the proceeds of all 
    claims for such loss or damage.
        (c) Survey and outturn reports. (1) Unless the Program Agreement 
    provides otherwise, CCC shall arrange for an independent cargo surveyor 
    to attend the discharge of the cargo and to report on the quantity and 
    condition of the commodities discharged and the probable cause of any 
    damage. All cargoes provided under an agreement shall be surveyed. If 
    practicable, the examination of the cargo shall be conducted jointly by 
    the surveyor, the consignee, and the ocean carrier, and the survey 
    report shall be signed by all parties.
        (2) (i) If the Cooperating Sponsor arranges for an independent 
    cargo surveyor, the Cooperating Sponsor shall obtain a certification by 
    a public health official or similar competent authority as to the 
    condition of the commodity in any case where a damaged commodity 
    appears to be unfit for the use authorized in the Program Agreement; 
    and a certificate of disposition in the event the commodity is 
    determined to be unfit for its intended use. Such certificates shall be 
    obtained as soon as possible after discharge of the cargo. The 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall forward any narrative chronology or other 
    commentary it can provide to assist in the adjudication of ocean 
    transportation claims and shall prepare such a narrative in any case 
    where the loss is estimated to be in excess of $5,000.00. The 
    Cooperating Sponsor may, at its option, also engage the independent 
    surveyor to supervise clearance and delivery of the cargo from customs 
    or port areas to the Cooperating Sponsor or its agent and to issue 
    delivery survey reports thereon.
        (ii) In the event of cargo loss and damage, the Cooperating Sponsor 
    shall provide the names and addresses of individuals who were present 
    at the time of discharge and during survey and who can verify the 
    quantity lost or damaged. For bulk grain shipments, in those cases 
    where the Cooperating Sponsor is responsible for survey and outturn 
    reports, the Cooperating Sponsor shall obtain the services of an 
    independent surveyor to:
        (A) Observe the discharge of the cargo and report on discharging 
    methods including scale type, calibrations and any other factor which 
    may affect the accuracy of scale weights, and if scales are not used, 
    the reason should be stated and the method of weight determination 
    fully described;
        (B) Estimate the quantity of cargo, if any, lost during discharge 
    through carrier negligence;
        (C) Advise on the quality of sweepings;
        (D) Obtain copies of port or vessel records, if possible, showing 
    quantity discharged; and
        (E) Provide immediate notification to the Cooperating Sponsor if 
    additional services are necessary to protect cargo interests of if 
    surveyor has reason to believe that the correct quantity was not 
    discharged. In the case of shipments arriving in container vans, 
    Cooperating Sponsors shall require the independent surveyor to list the 
    container van numbers and seal numbers shown on the container vans, and 
    indicate whether the seals were intact at the time the container vans 
    were opened, and whether the container vans were in any way damaged. To 
    the extent possible, the independent surveyor should observe discharge 
    of container vans from the vessel to ascertain whether any damage to 
    the container van occurred and arrange for surveying the contents as 
    soon as possible after opening.
        (iii) Cooperating Sponsors shall send copies to KCFMO, Chief, Debt 
    Management Office of all reports and documents pertaining to the 
    discharge of commodities.
        (iv) CCC will reimburse the Cooperating Sponsor for incurred costs 
    upon receipt of the survey report and the surveyor's invoice or other 
    documents that establish the survey cost. CCC shall not reimburse a 
    Cooperating Sponsor for the costs of only a delivery survey, in the 
    absence of a discharge survey, or for any other survey not taken 
    contemporaneously with the discharge of the vessel, unless such 
    deviation is justified to the satisfaction of CCC.
        (3) Survey contracts shall be let on a competitive bid basis unless 
    CCC determines that the use of competitive bids would not be 
    practicable. CCC may preclude the use of certain surveyors because of 
    conflicts of interest or lack of demonstrated capability to properly 
    carry out surveying responsibilities.
        (d) Ocean carrier loss and damage. (1) Notwithstanding transfer of 
    title to the Cooperating Sponsor, the CCC shall have the right to file, 
    pursue, and retain the proceeds of collection from claims arising from 
    ocean transportation cargo loss and damage, including loss and damage 
    occurring between the time of transfer of title and loading aboard a 
    vessel. CCC assumes general average contributions and all valid general 
    average incidents which may arise from the movement of commodity to the 
    destination ports. CCC shall receive and retain all allowances in 
    general average. Where the Cooperating Sponsor pays the ocean freight 
    or a portion thereof, it shall be entitled to pro rata reimbursement 
    received from any claims related to ocean freight charged.
        (2) The Cooperating Sponsor shall: File notice with the ocean 
    carrier immediately upon discovery of any cargo loss or damage, 
    promptly initiate claims against the ocean carriers for such loss and 
    damage, take all necessary action to obtain restitution for losses, and 
    provide CCC copies of all such claims. Notwithstanding the foregoing, 
    the Cooperating Sponsors need not file a claim when the cargo loss is 
    less than $100, or in any case when the loss is between $100 and $300 
    and the Cooperating Sponsors determine that the cost of filing and 
    collecting the claim will exceed the amount of the claim. Cooperating 
    Sponsors shall transmit to KCFMO, Chief, Debt Management Office 
    information and documentation on such lost or damaged shipments when no 
    claim is to be filed. When General Average has been declared, 
    Cooperating Sponsors need not file or collect claims for loss of, or 
    damage to, commodities.
        (3) Amounts collected by Cooperating Sponsors on claims against 
    ocean carriers which are less than $200 may be retained by the 
    Cooperating Sponsor. On claims involving loss of damage of $200 or more 
    the Cooperating Sponsors may retain from collections received by them, 
    either $200 plus 10 percent of the difference between $200 and the 
    total amount collected on the claim, up to a maximum of $500; or the 
    actual administrative expenses incurred in collection of the claim, 
    provided retention of such administrative expenses is approved by CCC. 
    Allowable collection costs shall not to include attorneys fees, fees of 
    collection agencies, and similar costs. In no event will CCC pay 
    collection costs in excess of the amount collected on the claim.
        (4) The Cooperating Sponsors also may retain from claim recoveries 
    remaining after allowable deductions for administrative expenses of 
    collection, the amount of any special charges, such as handling and 
    packing costs, which the Cooperating Sponsor has incurred on the lost 
    or damaged commodity and which are included in the claims and paid by 
    the liable party.
        (5) The Cooperating Sponsor may redetermine claims on the basis of 
    additional documentation or information not considered when the claims 
    were originally filed when such documentation or information clearly 
    changes the ocean carrier's liability. Approval of such changes by CCC 
    is not required regardless of amount. However, copies of redetermined 
    claims and supporting documentation or information shall be furnished 
    to CCC.
        (6) The Cooperating Sponsor may negotiate compromise settlements of 
    claims of any amount, provided that proposed compromise settlements of 
    claims having a value of $5,000 or more shall require prior approved in 
    writing by CCC. When a claim is compromised, the Cooperating Sponsor 
    may retain from the amount collected, the amounts authorized in 
    paragraph (d)(3) of this section, and in addition, an amount 
    representing such percentage of the special charges described in 
    paragraph (d)(4) of this section as compromised amount is to the full 
    amount of the claim. When a claim is less than $600, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor may terminate collection activity when it is determined that 
    pursuit of such claims will not be economically sound. Approval for 
    such termination by CCC is not required; however, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall notify KCFMO, Chief, Debt Management Division when 
    collection activity on a claim is terminated.
        (7) All amounts collected in excess of the amounts authorized 
    herein to be retained shall be remitted to CCC. For the purpose of 
    determining the amount to be retained by the Cooperating Sponsor from 
    the proceeds of claims filed against ocean carriers, the word ``claim'' 
    shall refer to the loss and damage to commodities which are shipped on 
    the same voyage of the same vessel to the same port destination, 
    irrespective of the kinds of commodities shipped or the number of 
    different bills of lading issued by the carrier.
        (8) If a Cooperating Sponsor is unable to effect collection of a 
    claim or negotiate an acceptable compromise settlement within the 
    applicable period of limitation or any extension thereof granted in 
    writing by the liable party or parties, the rights of the Cooperating 
    Sponsor to the claim shall be assigned to CCC in sufficient time to 
    permit the filing of legal action prior to the expiration of the period 
    of limitation or any extension thereof. Generally, the Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall assign claim rights to CCC no later than 60 days prior to 
    the expiration of the period of limitation or any extension thereof. In 
    all cases, the Cooperating Sponsor, shall keep CCC informed of the 
    progress of its collection efforts and shall promptly assign their 
    claim rights to CCC upon request. Subsequently, if CCC collects on or 
    settles the claim, CCC shall, except as indicated below, pay to the 
    Cooperating Sponsor the amount to which it would have been entitled had 
    it collected on the claim. The additional 10 percent on amounts 
    collected in excess of $200 will be payable, however, only if CCC 
    determines that reasonable efforts were made to collect the claim prior 
    to the assignment, or if payment is determined to be commensurate with 
    the extra efforts exerted in further documenting the claim. If 
    documentation requirements have not been fulfilled and the lack of such 
    documentation has not been justified to the satisfaction of CCC, CCC 
    will deny payment of all allowances to the Cooperating Sponsor.
        (9) When a Cooperating Sponsor fails to file a claim, permit a 
    claim to become time-barred, or fail to take timely actions to insure 
    the right of CCC to assert such claims, and CCC determines that the 
    Cooperating Sponsor failed to properly exercise its responsibilities 
    under the Agreement, the Cooperating Sponsor shall be liable to the 
    United States for the cost and freight value of the commodities lost to 
    the program.
        (e) Fault of Cooperating Sponsor in country of distribution. The 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall pay to CCC the value of the commodities, 
    proceeds or program income lost, damaged, or misused (or may, with 
    prior Agricultural Counselor or Attache approval, replace such 
    commodities with similar commodities of equal value). If the 
    Cooperating Sponsor:
        (1) improperly distributed a commodity;
        (2) uses a commodity, monetized proceeds from the sale thereof or 
    program income for purposes not permitted under the Program Agreement, 
    the approved Plan of Operation or this part 1499;
        (3) causes loss or damage to a commodity or loss of monetized 
    proceeds or program income through any act or omission; or
        (4) fails to provide proper storage, care, and handling. The 
    Cooperating Sponsor may be excused of its obligations for such payment 
    or replacement if it is determined by CCC that such improper 
    distribution or use, or such loss or damage, could not have been 
    prevented by proper exercise of the Cooperating Sponsor's 
    responsibility under the terms of the Program Agreement. Normal 
    commercial practices in the country of distribution shall be considered 
    in determining whether there was a proper exercise of the Cooperating 
    sponsor's responsibility. Payment by the Cooperating Sponsor shall be 
    made in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section.
        (f) Fault of others in country of distribution and in intermediate 
    country. (1) In addition to survey or outturn reports to determine 
    ocean carrier loss and damage, the Cooperating Sponsor shall, in the 
    case of landlocked countries, arrange for an independent survey at the 
    point of entry into the recipient country and make a report as set 
    forth in paragraph (c)(1) of this section. CCC will reimburse the 
    Cooperating Sponsor for the costs of survey as set forth in paragraph 
    (c)(2)(iv) of this section.
        (2) Where any damage to or loss of the commodity or any loss of 
    monetized proceeds or program income is attributable to a warehouseman, 
    carrier or other person, the Cooperating Sponsor shall make every 
    reasonable effort to pursue collection of claims for such loss or 
    damage. The Cooperating Sponsor shall furnish a copy of the claim and 
    related documents to the Agricultural Counselor or Attache. Cooperating 
    Sponsors who fail to file or pursue such claims shall be liable to CCC 
    for the value of the commodities or loss of monetized proceeds or 
    program income is attributable to a warehouseman, carrier or other 
    person, the Cooperating Sponsor shall make every reasonable effort to 
    pursue collection of claims for such loss or damage. The Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall furnish a copy of the claim and related documents to the 
    Agricultural Counselor or Attache. Cooperating Sponsors who fail to 
    file or pursue such claims shall be liable to CCC for the value of the 
    commodities or monetized proceeds or program income lost, damaged, or 
    misused: Provided, however, that the Cooperating Sponsor may elect not 
    to file a claim if the loss is less than $500. The Cooperating Sponsor 
    may retain $150 of any amount collected on an individual claim. In 
    addition, Cooperating Sponsors may, with the written approval of the 
    Agricultural Counselor or Attache, retain amounts to cover special 
    costs of collection such as legal fees, or pay such collection costs 
    with monetized proceeds or program income. Any proposed settlement for 
    less than the full amount of the claim requires prior approval by the 
    Agricultural Counselor or Attache. When the Cooperating Sponsor has 
    exhausted all reasonable attempts to collect a claim, it shall request 
    the Agricultural Counselor or Attache to provide further instructions.
        (3) At a minimum, the Cooperating Sponsor shall pursue any claim by 
    initial billings and with three progressively stronger demands at not 
    more than 30 day intervals. If these efforts fail to elicit a 
    satisfactory response, legal action in the judicial system of the 
    cooperating country shall be pursued unless:
        (i) Liability of the third party is not provable,
        (ii) The cost of pursuing the claim would exceed the amount of the 
    claim,
        (iii) The third party would not have enough assets to satisfy the 
    claim after a judicial decision favorable to the cooperating sponsor, 
    or
        (iv) Maintaining legal action in the country's judicial system 
    would seriously impair the Cooperating Sponsor's ability to conduct an 
    effective program in the country.
        A Cooperating Sponsor's decisions not to take legal action, and 
    reasons therefore, must be submitted in writing to the Agricultural 
    Counselor or Attache for review and approval, and the Agricultural 
    Counselor or Attache may require the Cooperating Sponsor to obtain the 
    opinion of competent legal counsel to support its decision. A 
    Cooperating Sponsor may request approval to terminate legal action 
    after it has commenced for any of the exceptions described above or if 
    CCC determines that it is otherwise appropriate to terminate legal 
    action prior to judgment. In each instance the Agricultural Counsel or 
    Attache must provide the Cooperating Sponsor with a written explanation 
    of its decision. If the Agricultural Counselor or Attache approves a 
    Cooperating Sponsor's decision not to take further action on the claim 
    for reasons described in paragraph (f)(3)(iv) of this section, the 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall assign the claim to CCC and shall provide to 
    CCC all documentation relating to the claim.
        (4) As an alternative to legal action in the judicial system of the 
    country with regard to claims against a public entity of the government 
    of the cooperating country, the Cooperating Sponsor and the cooperating 
    country may agree in writing to settle disputed claims by an 
    appropriate administrative procedure or arbitration.
        (g) Determination of value. When payment is to be made for 
    commodities misused, lost or damaged, the value shall be determined on 
    the basis of the domestic market price at the time and place the 
    misuse, loss or damage occurred. When it is not feasible to determine 
    such market price, the value shall be the f.o.b. or f.a.s. commercial 
    export price of the commodity at the time and place of export, plus 
    ocean freight charges and other costs incurred by the U.S. Government 
    in making delivery to the Cooperating Sponsor. When the value is 
    determined on a cost basis, the Cooperating Sponsor may add to the 
    value any provable costs it has incurred prior to delivery by the ocean 
    carrier. In preparing the claim statement, these costs shall be clearly 
    segregated from costs incurred by the Government of the United States. 
    With respect to claims other than ocean carrier loss or damage claims, 
    the value of misused, lost or damaged commodities may be determined on 
    some other justifiable basis, at the request of the Cooperating Sponsor 
    or upon the recommendation of the Agricultural Counselor or Attache or 
    CCC designated representative. When replacement is made, the value of 
    commodities misused, lost or damaged shall be their value at the time 
    and place the misuse, loss, or damage occurred and the value of the 
    replacement commodities shall be their value at the time and place 
    replacement is made.
        (h) Reporting losses to the Agricultural Counselor or Attache or 
    CCC designated representative. (1) The Cooperating Sponsor shall 
    promptly notify the Agricultural Counselor or Attache or CCC designated 
    representative, in writing, of the circumstances pertaining to any 
    loss, damage, or misuse of commodities valued at $500 or more occurring 
    within the country of distribution or intermediate country. The report 
    shall be made as soon as the Cooperating Sponsor has adequately 
    investigated the circumstances, but in no event more than ninety (90) 
    days from the date the loss became known to the Cooperating Sponsor. 
    The report shall identify the party in possession of the commodities 
    and the party responsible for the loss, damage or misuse; the kind and 
    quantities of commodities; the size and type of containers; the time 
    and place of misuse, loss, or damage; the current location of the 
    commodity; the Program Agreement number, the CCC contract numbers, or 
    if unknown, other identifying numbers printed on the commodity 
    containers; the action taken by the Cooperating Sponsor with respect to 
    recovery or disposal; and the estimated value of the commodity. The 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall explain the unavailability of any of the 
    above information. The Cooperating Sponsor shall also report the 
    details regarding any loss or misuse of monetized proceeds or program 
    income.
        (2) The Cooperating Sponsor shall report quarterly to the 
    Agricultural Counselor or Attache any loss, damage to or misuse of 
    commodities resulting in loss of less than $500. The Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall inform the Agricultural Counselor or Attache or CCC 
    designated representative if it has reason to believe there is a 
    pattern or trend in the loss, damage, or misuse of such commodities and 
    submit a report on the basis described in paragraph (h)(1) of this 
    section together with such other information as the Cooperating Sponsor 
    has available to it. The Agricultural Counselor or Attache may require 
    additional information about any commodities lost, damaged or misused 
    if it believes such information is necessary in order to maintain the 
    integrity of the program.
        (i) Handling claims proceeds. Claims against ocean carriers shall 
    be collected in U.S. dollars (or in currency in which freight is paid, 
    or a pro data share of either) and shall be remitted (less amounts 
    authorized to be retained) by Cooperation Sponsors to CCC. Claims 
    against Cooperating Sponsors shall be paid to CCC in U.S. dollars. With 
    respect to commodities lost, damaged or misused, amounts paid by 
    Cooperating Sponsors and third parties in the country of distribution 
    shall be deposited with the U.S. Disbursing Officer, American Embassy, 
    preferably, in U.S. dollars with instructions to credit the deposit to 
    an appropriate CCC account as determined by CCC, or in local currency 
    at the official exchange rate applicable to dollar imports at the time 
    of deposit with instructions to credit the deposit to an appropriate 
    CCC account as determined by CCC. With respect to monetized proceeds 
    and program income, amounts recovered may be deposited in the same 
    account as the monetized proceeds and may be used for purposes of the 
    program.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.18  Records and reporting requirements.
    
        (a) Records and reports--general requirements. (1) The Cooperating 
    Sponsor shall maintain records and documents in a manner which 
    accurately reflects all transactions pertaining to the receipt, 
    storage, distribution sale, inspection and use of commodities and the 
    receipt and disbursement of any monetized proceeds and program income, 
    including interest and fees. Such records shall be retained for a 
    period of three years from the close of the U.S. fiscal year to which 
    they pertain. The Cooperating Sponsor shall provide CCC with any 
    records, or copies thereof, requested by CCC.
        (2) The Cooperating Sponsor shall cooperate with and assist to U.S. 
    government representatives to enable examination of any activities, 
    facilities or records of the Cooperating Sponsor pertaining to the 
    receipt, storage, distribution, sale, inspection and use of commodities 
    and the receipt and disbursement of any monetized proceeds and program 
    income, including interest and fees.
        (b) Evidence of export. The Cooperating Sponsor shall, within 
    thirty (30) days after export, furnish evidence of export of the 
    agricultural commodities to the Director, P.L. 480-OD. If export is by 
    sea or air, two copies of the on board carrier's bill of lading or 
    consignee's receipt authenticated by a representative of the U.S. 
    Customs Service shall be furnished. The evidence of export must show 
    the kind and quantity of agricultural commodities exported, the date of 
    export, and the destination country.
        (c) Special reports required under section 416(b). (1) The 
    Cooperating Sponsor shall submit a semiannual Logistics Report to the 
    Director, PAD, and to the Agricultural Counselor or Attache or CCC 
    designated representative. The first logistics report shall be 
    submitted on or before the date specified in the section 416(b) Program 
    Agreement and shall cover the full period since the date of that 
    agreement. Subsequent reports shall be made at six month intervals 
    during the period in which commodities received are being distributed 
    by the Cooperating Sponsor. The logistics report shall contain the 
    following information:
        (i) Receipts of agricultural commodity including the name of each 
    vessel, discharge ports, the date discharge was completed, the 
    condition of the commodities on arrival, any significant loss or damage 
    in transit; advice of any claim for, or recovery of, or reduction of 
    freight charges due to loss or damage in transit on U.S. flag vessels;
        (ii) Estimated commodity inventory at the end of the reporting 
    period;
        (iii) Quantity of commodity on order and in transit during the 
    reporting period;
        (iv) Status of claims for commodity losses both resolved and 
    unresolved during the reporting period; and
        (v) Quantity of commodity damaged or declared unfit during the 
    reporting period.
        (2) In the event that an approved program calls for the 
    monetization of all, or any portion of the donated agricultural 
    commodities, the Cooperating Sponsor shall also submit a semiannual 
    monetization report to the Director, PAD, containing the information 
    specified below, and a quarterly report to the Controller, CCC, 
    containing the information specified in paragraphs (c)(2)(i) through 
    (iv) of this section. The first monetization report shall be submitted 
    by the date specified in the section 416(b) Program Agreement and shall 
    cover the full period from the date of that agreement. Reports 
    thereafter should cover each subsequent semiannual or quarterly period 
    in which commodities received are being distributed, or monetized 
    proceeds are being held or disbursed, by the Cooperating Sponsor. The 
    monetization report must contain the following data:
        (i) The quantity of each type of commodity furnished for the 
    purpose of sale or barter, and the actual amount sold or bartered;
        (ii) The amount of funds and value of services generated from sales 
    and barter of the commodities, in both local currency and U.S. dollar 
    equivalent.
        (iii) Deposits into and disbursements from the special account, the 
    total amount of funds used to date, and balance in special account, in 
    both local currencies and U.S. dollar equivalents.
        (iv) The amount of generated currencies not yet programmed that 
    will be used and an estimate of when they will be disbursed.
        (v) A thorough description of how the funds and services generated 
    were or will be used, including information regarding project goals, 
    accomplishments, and the number of beneficiaries.
        (vi) Quantity of commodities as yet unsold, and an estimate of when 
    sales and barter will be completed.
        (vii) A thorough description of the effectiveness of sales and 
    barter provisions in facilitating the distribution of commodities and 
    products to targeted recipients.
        (viii) A description of the extent, if any, that sales, barter or 
    use of section 416(b) commodities:
        (A) affected the usual marketing of the United States;
        (B) displaced or interfered with commercial sales of the United 
    States;
        (C) disrupted world commodity prices or normal patterns of trade 
    with friendly countries; and
        (D) discouraged local production and marketing of commodities in 
    the recipient country;
        (ix) An explanation of the extent to which agreement objectives 
    were achieved.
        (x) Recommendations for improving sale, barter, or use provisions 
    of future section 416(b) programs.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.19  Termination of program.
    
        All or any part of the assistance provided under a Program 
    Agreement, including commodities in transit, may be suspended or 
    terminated by CCC if:
        (a) The Cooperating Sponsor fails to comply with the provisions of 
    the Program Agreement or this part;
        (b) It is determined by CCC that the continuation of such 
    assistance is no longer necessary or desirable; or
        (c) CCC determines that storage facilities are inadequate to 
    prevent spoilage or waste or that distribution of commodities will 
    result in substantial disincentive to, or interfere with, domestic 
    production or marketing in the recipient country.
    
    
    Sec. 1499.20  Sample documents and guidelines for developing proposals 
    and reports.
    
        To assist with effective reporting on program logistics and 
    monetization, etc., guidelines have been developed. Examples of these 
    guidelines may be obtained from the Director, PAD.
    
        Signed this 7th day of February 1994, in Washington, DC.
    Christopher E. Goldthwait,
    General Sales Manger, FAS, and Vice President, Commodity Credit 
    Corporation.
    [FR Doc. 94-3212 Filed 2-11-94; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 3410-10-M
    
    
    

Document Information

Published:
02/14/1994
Department:
Commodity Credit Corporation
Entry Type:
Uncategorized Document
Action:
Proposed rule.
Document Number:
94-3212
Dates:
Comments on the proposed rule must be submitted by March 16, 1994.
Pages:
0-0 (1 pages)
Docket Numbers:
Federal Register: February 14, 1994
CFR: (20)
7 CFR 1499.1
7 CFR 1499.2
7 CFR 1499.3
7 CFR 1499.4
7 CFR 1499.5
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