International Trade, Customs and Export Controls
Mr. Lasoff has represented in the regulatory arena, U.S. importers in customs administrative and enforcement proceedings; U.S. firms seeking export licenses for complex international projects in the nuclear, space and aerospace sectors; U.S. and foreign companies seeking to bring their internal import/export systems into compliance with U.S. customs and export control regulations; U.S. companies seeking to improve their access to foreign markets; and coalitions of U.S. manufacturers attempting to protect U.S. markets from unfair import competition.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Lasoff served during the Carter Administration as the executive assistant to the Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade. Previously, he was an international trade specialist in the Department of Commerce, Bureau of East-West Trade, which had responsibility for both promoting commercial relations with the Communist world and controlling exports for national security purposes.
Government Relations and Trade Associations
Mr. Lasoff also represents trade and industry associations on regulatory and legislative issues. His deep understanding of the industries that he has represented for decades in international trade disputes, combined with his insight and experience with federal regulation and oversight, has enabled him to be an effective advocate for steel, high performance materials, manufacturing and apparel interests. Mr. Lasoff is particularly adept at counseling clients on the sensitive issues that surround potential bans or use restrictions on certain products or practices.
Representative Experience
Represented U.S. superalloys and titanium manufacturers before Congress and the Executive Branch on defense and trade-related issues.Represented U.S. specialty steel manufacturers and unions in more than two dozen successful trade cases under the antidumping, countervailing duty and safeguard laws. Developed a training program for U.S. Customs officials charged with implementing the remedies resulting from these cases.
Represented U.S. television manufacturers and unions in a successful antidumping case against imports of Chinese color televisions. Case received prominent coverage on CNN and other national news media outlets.
Represented the outdoor power equipment industry in securing permanent tariff cuts in overseas markets during the Uruguay round of multilateral trade negotiations. Also has represented the same industry in challenging proposed European legislation and technical standards that impede U.S. exports of outdoor power equipment products.
Represented U.S. importers of petroleum, food, tableware, furs, toys and other consumer products in Customs audits, forfeiture and penalty proceedings arising out of the misclassification of imports or the submission of improper documentation. Proceedings have concluded with the substantial reduction or elimination of penalties or the remission of forfeitures.
Represented animal use industries in connection with market access issues arising out of animal welfare regulations.
Represented the U.S. fur industry in connection with the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act, which was signed into law by President Bush in November 2006.
Professional Activities
Industry Trade Advisory Committee on Consumer Goods: Advisor on Trade Negotiations, Department of Commerce and Office of U.S. Trade RepresentativeIndustry Trade Advisory Committee on Customs
