A PGA, or Partner Government Agency, is a government agency that works with customs authorities to regulate specific imported or exported goods. In U.S. trade, PGAs work alongside Customs and Border Protection to enforce rules for products such as food, drugs, medical devices, chemicals, plants, animals, vehicles, and controlled goods. PGA requirements may include permits, licences, product data, safety certifications, inspections, or admissibility reviews before a shipment can be released.
Key PGAs and Their Oversight
- FDA: food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics
- USDA APHIS: plants, animals, agricultural products
- EPA: vehicles, chemicals, pesticides
- CPSC: consumer products and children’s products
- ATF: firearms, explosives, alcohol, tobacco
- FCC: electronic devices and communications equipment
PGA holds are a leading cause of customs clearance delays. Verify PGA requirements for your product category with your customs broker before the first shipment.
Learn more about Dedola’s medical device logistics. Related terms: Customs Entry.
