Monday, September 30, 2013

CBERA Continues to Have a Small but Positive Effect on Beneficiary Countries, Says USITC

According to a report released Monday by the United States International Trade Commission, the overall effect of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act ("CBERA") on the U.S. economy continues to be negligible while the effect on U.S. consumers and beneficiary countries is small but positive, reports the U.S. International Trade Commission ("USITC").

The USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, recently issued its 21st in a series of biennial reports monitoring imports under CBERA. The CBERA program, operative since January 1, 1984, affords preferential tariff treatment to most products of the 16 designated Caribbean and South American countries that received CBERA benefits during the period covered in the report. A seventeenth country, Panama, was a CBERA member until October of 2012 when the US-Panama FTA went into effect.

The USITC report covers the impact of CBERA, as modified, on the United States, with particular emphasis on calendar year 2012. CBERA requires the Commission to prepare a biennial report assessing both the actual and the probable future effect of CBERA on the U.S. economy generally, on U.S. industries, and on U.S. consumers. The report also covers the impact of the preference program on the beneficiary countries themselves. Following are highlights of the 2011-12 report.

    Imports benefiting from CBERA rose strongly in 2011. The sharp increase in CBERA imports in 2011 can be mostly attributed to the U.S. recovery from the economic recession and its effects on the demand for imports and commodity prices, according to the report. Additionally, U.S. imports of textiles and apparel from Haiti increased sharply in 2011 as Haiti rebounded from its devastating earthquake in 2010. The decline in imports benefiting from CBERA in 2012 reflected slower growth in commodity prices and a decline in U.S. demand for energy imports, among other factors.

  • The overall effect of CBERA-exclusive imports (imports that could receive tariff preferences only under CBERA provisions) on the U.S. economy generally and on U.S. industries and consumers continued to be negligible in 2012. The Commission did identify one U.S. industry-methanol-that might face significant negative effects due to competition from CBERA-exclusive imports.

  • Imports under the CBERA program fell from $3.6 billion in 2011 to $3.1 billion in 2012, reflecting a decline in U.S. demand for energy imports, slower growth in commodity prices, the exit of Panama from the CBERA in October 2012 upon the entry into force of the U.S.-Panama FTA, and other factors, such as changes in the U.S. ethanol program on December 31, 2011, that ended certain preferential treatment under CBERA.

  • CBERA has encouraged several beneficiary countries to develop niche exports to the United States, including polystyrene from The Bahamas, fruits and fruit juices from Belize, and electronic products from St. Kitts and Nevis.

  • The Commission finds that investment for the near-term production and export of CBERA-eligible products is not likely to result in imports that would have a measurable economic impact on the U.S. economy generally and on U.S. producers. Although investment in Haiti's export-oriented apparel sector increased significantly in 2011-2012, Haiti will likely remain a small U.S. apparel supplier.

  • Exporting CBERA-eligible goods is a challenge for many CBERA beneficiaries because of supply-side constraints, including inadequate infrastructure. However, special CBERA provisions for Haiti have had a strong, positive effect on export earnings and job creation in Haiti's apparel sector.

Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act: Impact on U.S. Industries and Consumers and on Beneficiary Countries, Twenty-first Report, 2011-12 (Inv. No. 332-227, USITC Publication No. 4428, September 2013) is available at http://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/pub4428.pdf.

Limitations of Duty- and Quota-Free Imports of Apparel Articles Assembled in Beneficiary Sub-Saharan African Countries From Regional and Third-Country Fabric

The Africa Growth and Opportunity Act ("AGOA") provides for duty-free entry of apparel assembled in the AGOA region of fabric formed in the U.S. of yarn formed in the U.S. It also provided for a Tariff Preference Level ("TPL") equal to seven percent of all U.S. apparel imports for apparel assembled in the AGOA region of fabric from the AGOA region. The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements ("CITA"), today, announce the TPL for the period October 1, 2013 through September 30, 2014 will be 1,784,195,681 square meter equivalents ("SME"). There is also a TPL for Lesser Developed Countries ("LDCs") in the AGOA region for apparel assembled in an AGOA LDC of third-country fabric. The TPL is set at 3.5 percent of all U.S. apparel imports. Today CITA announced the TPL for the 12-month period starting tomorrow will be 892,097,841 SME.

Friday, September 27, 2013

2013 Military/Other Government Agency Textile/Apparel Conference

On Thursday, October 17, 2013, at the Grandover Conference Center, Greensboro, N.C., International Market Solutions will hold its fifth one-day conference focusing on military and other government agency markets.

At this year's conference important and timely issues will be covered, to include:

  • Steve Merch from the Defense Logistics Agency discussing current activities and how the issue of budget cuts and sequester will impact military orders.

  • Jim Lovejoy of SEAMS regarding their approach to helping their members in this area.

  • Robert Newton will show and discuss his great video on the fact that we still have an industry in this country.

  • Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition.

  • Brian McSharry will discuss the saving of a major automotive textile operation and where it is now.

  • Amy Bulger from the International Center for Automotive Research will discuss their operations.

  • A discussion regarding colors for the military.

This year, again, the organizer will provide 2.5 x 8 foot tables for the display of products. The tables will cost $150 each.

Registration for the event is $80.00 if paid in advance or $100.00 at the door.

Register for the conference and order display tables by contacting: Jim Leonard, (336) 454-3583, cece454@aol.com or Jorman Fields, (336) 668-7060, tncfields@aol.com.

Materials from North American Consumer Product Safety Summit Available

On September 9-11, 2013, Health Canada's Consumer Product Safety Directorate proudly hosted the second trilateral North America Consumer Product Safety Summit with the United States Consumer Protection Federal Agency ("CPSC") and Mexico's Federal Attorney's Office of the Consumer ("PROFECO").

At the Summit, consumer product safety regulators from Canada, Mexico and the United States discussed areas of common interest and collaboration that were first established under the Cooperative Engagement Framework from the 2011 Summit in Bethesda, Maryland. At the conclusion of the Summit, Canada, Mexico and the United States issued their second Joint Statement, promoting greater cooperation and engagement in ensuring the safety of products made and sold across North America.

Download the materials from the North America Consumer Product Safety Summit.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Agathon Associates and RB Consulting Team Up for Techtextil

David Trumbull
James Carson
David Trumbull, Principal, Agathon Associates, and James Carson, Principal, RB Consulting, Inc. are teaming up to co-present at Techtextil North America in Atlanta, Georgia, May 13, 2014. The topic will be "Textile Regulations, Trade Agreements and Legal Patents." The Textile Industry has many statutory and regulatory requirements that must be met to compete in the global marketplace. Restrictions on materials and chemical used for processing are constantly in flux. This session will present an overview of some of the current global restrictions, new regulations, and legal patents.

Free Webinar: Export Opportunities in Mexico for Textiles and Apparel

The United States Department of Commerce Office of Textiles and Apparel ("OTEXA") will be presenting a free webinar, Thursday, November 7, 2013. at 2:00 p.m. EST. There is no charge to participate, but advance registration is required. For more information, please contact Laurie Mease or Richard Stetson at 202-482-3400 or go to the OTEXA website announcement by clicking here.

Textile Customs Enforcement Bill Filed in Senate

Senators Kay Hagan (Dem., N.C.) and Lindsey Graham (Rep., S.C.) have introduced a bill, S.1412, to provide the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Department of the Treasury with authority to more aggressively enforce customs and trade laws relating to textile and apparel articles. The bill provides for the seizure and forfeiture of textile articles for which preference under a trade agreement was fraudulently claimed. It further provides that fines on illegal textile shipments be directed toward textile enforcement and "referral fees" to persons who provide information to Customs that results in uncovering illegal activity. It would also mandate an increase in textile enforcement staffing. It calls for the implementation of an electronic tracking system for imports under the various free trade agreements. The bill would "establish a new importer program that directs U.S. Customs and Border Protection to adjust bond amounts for new importers of textile and apparel articles based on the level of risk with respect to protection of the revenue of the Federal Government presented by each new importer." It further would require any non-resident importer to name a resident agent in the State in which the port of entry is located so that the resident agent can be held accountable for any illegal activity. Finally, it directs the Commissioner of Customs and the head of the Office of Textiles and Apparel of the Department of Commerce to "establish an electronic Textile and Apparel Manufacturing Supplier Registry pilot program to serve as a centralized database of United States producers and manufacturers of thread, yarn, fabric, and apparel that supply products to companies in the United States, countries that are parties to the North American Free Trade Agreement, the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement, and other free trade agreements or eligible for preference programs for countries in the Western Hemisphere."

All-American Flag Act

Senators Sherrod Brown (Dem, Ohio) and Jay Rockefeller (Dem., West Virginia) have introduced a bill, S.1214, to require that "only such flags of the United States of America, regardless of size, that are 100 percent manufactured in the United States, from articles, materials, or supplies 100 percent of which are grown, produced, or manufactured in the United States, may be acquired for use by the Federal Government." It a press release, Senator Brown stated: "According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau statistics, the value of American flags imported into the United States last year was $3.8 million—including $3.6 million from China." It is not immediately clear whether the bill, if enacted, would apply in the case of a country, such as Vietnam, that is negotiating a free trade agreement with the U.S. One provision in the bill states: "This Act shall be applied in a manner consistent with United States obligations under international agreements." That is significant as our free trade agreements with other nations typically ban such "Buy American" provisions except in certain limited and enumerated cases relating to national security.

American Flock Association Annual Meeting, Oct. 21st - 22nd, Orlando

The 28th Annual Meeting of the American Flock Association will be at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Orlando, Florida on October 21st and 22nd.

Featured will be presentations from Auggie Tantillo, the new president of the National Council of Textile Organizations, Caroline Ellington and Jasmine Cox, North Carolina State graduate students who will report on their senior design flock projects, Reg Martin Vice President of Bufkor, Inc. and Tom Witham who will bring an update on the UMass Dartmouth "Flock Energy Absorbing Materials" project for helmets to prevent concussions.

On Wednesday - Friday the AFA will be exhibiting at the IFAI/SGIA show.

Click here for an AFA annual meeting registration form.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Made in America

"Made in USA is a trend we have seen and it has continued," said David Trumbull, Principal of Agathon Associates, in a recent article on American manufacturing by CNBS/NBC. The full article is available on the website of CNBC and a shorter version on the website of NBC News.

CPSC to Meet with AAFA

On September 30, 2013, Consumer Product Safety Commissioner Adler will be meeting with the American Apparel and Footwear Association. Commissioner Robert Adler and Jana Fong-Swamidoss, Counsel to Commissioner Adler, are schedule to meet with Kevin Burke, CEO & President; Danielle Abdul, Steve Lamar, Nate Herman of the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) for follow up discussion regarding AAFA's testimony at the CPSC July hearing on 2013 Agenda and Priorities.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Dept. of Defense Tent Contract Awarded

Camel Manufacturing Co., Pioneer, Tenn., has been awarded a maximum $7,482,250 fixed-price with an economic-price-adjustment contract for frame type expandable tents. Location of performance is Tennessee with a Sept. 20, 2014, performance completion date. This contract was a competitive acquisition and two offers were received. Using military services are Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-13-D-1069).

Air Force Polyester/Wool Serge Cloth Contract Awarded

Burlington Apparel Fabrics, division of Burlington Industries LLC, Greensboro, N.C., has been awarded a maximum $9,552,000 modification (P00001) exercising the first option-year period of a one-year base contract (SPM1C1-12-D-1072) with four one-year option periods for poly/wool serge cloth. The contract is a firm-fixed-price with an economic-price-adjustment, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Locations of performance are North Carolina and Pennsylvania with a Sept. 26, 2014, performance completion date. Using military service is Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa.

Friday, September 20, 2013

Analysis of the FTC's Response to Joint Textile Industry Comments Regarding the Wool Rules

On January 30, 2012, the United States Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") published in the Federal Register (77 FR 4498) Rules and Regulations Under the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939; Advance notice of proposed rulemaking; request for public comment. The FTC systematically reviews all its rules and guides to ensure that they continue to achieve their intended purpose without unduly burdening commerce.

On September 20, 2012, the FTC published in the Federal Register (78 FR 57808) Rules and Regulations Under the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939; Notice of proposed rulemaking. Comments are due by November 25, 2013. In this notice the FTC responds to the comments submitted in 2012, notes whether they are accepted, accepted with modification, or rejected. This stage of the regulatory process provides for public comment, but experience has shown that, after the initial round of comments, the regulatory body is, typicaly, fairly well settled on the text and is not expecting major new comments, merely refinements. However, in the case, of the definition of "very fine wools" the FTC concluded it lacks any basis to propose amendments to restrict the use of "Super" or "S" numbers or to require disclosures to prevent consumer deception." Therefore the FTC seeks comment on whether and how wool products are being deceptively marketed using the "Super" or "S" numbers, and on the most effective way to amend the Rules to address any such deception.

When the 2012 review of the Wool Rules was announced, the Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute ("CCMI") took the lead in drafting comments that were submitted, March 26, 2012, jointly by the American Manufacturing Trade Action Coalition, American Sheep Industry Association, Cashmere and Camel Hair Manufacturers Institute, the National Council of Textile Organizations, and the National Textile Association. Principal drafter of these joint comments was David Trumbull.

CCMI commented on the need for the rules, noting that:

From 2004, when we first began monitoring the U.S. market for suits, through 2006, our targeted enforcement program found that every suit we bought that had a Super S label was, in fact, mislabeled as to the average fiber diameter of the wool. We found widespread mislabeling in 2007 and 2008 as well. By 2009 the trade had been educated as to the substantial penalty for fraudulent misstating of wool fiber diameter, with the result that over the past three years we have found that Super S claims are made less frequently and that when they are made they can largely be relied on.

FTC concluded that there is a need for the Wool Rules. The FTC further concluded that the Wool Rules need to be modified to reflect the 2006 amendments to the Wool Act (the definition of cashmere and superfine wool). The Conforming Act's definition of "cashmere," itself taken from CCMI's definition, will be added to the Wool Rules. The FTC is taking the text of the Conforming Act as is, including ambiguities, because "none of the commenters provided evidence regarding consumer understanding of the "Super" or "S" numbers. Thus [sic], the Commission lacks any basis to propose amendments to restrict the use of "Super" or "S" numbers or to require disclosures to prevent consumer deception." The FTC seeks comment on whether and how wool products are being deceptively marketed using the "Super" or "S" numbers, and on the most effective way to amend the Rules to address any such deception.

CCMI commented:

Currently the Rules are unclear to many in the trade concerning hair of a cashmere producing goat that is not "cashmere" within the definition created by 15 U.S.C. 68b(6) because it is the coarse guard hair of the goat or otherwise does not meet the physical parameters set out in the section. It is our understanding that such goat hair, under the provisions of 15 U.S.C. 68a(a) may be labeled "wool" or "other fur fiber" or "goat fiber" under 15 U.S.C. 70b(g).

FTC replied that the Wool Act defines "wool" and the hair of certain animals including the cashmere goat, therefore, hair from a cashmere goat that does not meet the definition of "cashmere" must be labeled "wool."

CCMI commented:

[The] wool trade internationally includes other fine animal hair. The Annex I of the European Union Regulation N. 1007/2011 is more in conformity with usage in the trade in that it permits the use of the label "wool" in the cases additional fiber such as yak and guanaco ... to the extent that such is consistent with the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939 we urge inclusion of those other "specialty wool" fibers. Similarly, the Rules do not now adequately provide for precise classification of fibers that have come into commercial use in recent years such as jangir.

FTC responded that such modifications would require an act of congress modifying the Wool Act.

CCMI commented:

The Conforming Act's definition already has a tolerance for deviation built-in. "80s" to refer to fiber of average diameter of 19.5 micron and, by defining "80s" as 19.75, has added 0.25 micron as a tolerance for deviation. We believe that Congress gave the Commission authority to adopt regulations regarding standards or deviations solely for the purpose of giving the Commission the ability to make minor adjustments necessary to reconcile the Conforming Act with the IWTO Code of Practice.

FTC stated there will be no tolerance.

CCMI commented:

We find that in the trade there is no complete agreement on how the S numbers apply in the case of blends, an important question on which the 2006 act appears to be indistinct. We also asked how the S number should be calculated in the case of a fabric with yarns of different fineness in the warp and filling, as suggested the numbers should be averaged. We suggest that the Commission conduct a thorough study, including an additional comment period and possibly industry workshop intended to develop a clearer consensus on this issue before promulgating a final Rule.

FTC declined to give guidance regarding blends. The FTC seeks additional comments regarding blends.

FTC declined stating that CCMI gave no evidence as to why this is the correct method. The FTC seeks additional comments regarding blends.

CCMI commented:

We believe it would be advisable to give precise indications as far as the testing methods to assure conformity with the 2006 amendments. We believe that ASTM D 2130 (corresponding to ISO 137 – projection microscope) is the correct testing method

FTC declined to mandate the test for fiber fineness, stating that CCMI's comments did not address why the IWTO test is reliable, let alone the only reliable test, and noted that the FTC Act permits marketers to use any competent and reliable method to substantiate claims.

CCMI raised several questions about ambiguities in the definitions of superfine wools. The FTC largely declined to rule, stating, "the record provided an insufficient basis for proposing changes" and seeking further comment.

CCMI commented:

The 2006 amendments to the Wool Act were intended to conform U.S. labeling law for superfine wool to the International Wool Textile Organisation ("IWTO") Code of Practice, therefore, the Commission, in modifying the Rules, should consult the most recent version of the IWTO Code of Practice.

The FTC rejected conforming the Wool Rules to the Code, stating:

  1. The FTC cannot go beyond what Congress did in the Act and Congress did not enact the current code.

  2. The definition of wool in the Code is not consistent with the definition of wool in the Wool Act.

NOTE that the FTC did not address CCMI's comment that S numbers should not be used to describe man-made fibers or animal fibers that are not "wool" within the meaning of the Wool Act.

CPSC Proposes to Amend Rules to Allow Staff to Fully Participate in Voluntary Standards Activities

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (Commission or CPSC) is issuing a proposed rule that would amend the existing regulation on Commission participation and employee involvement in voluntary standards activities. Currently, Commission rules allow employees to participate in voluntary standard development groups on a non-voting basis, and do not allow Commission employees to accept leadership positions in voluntary standard development groups. The proposed rule would remove these restrictions and would allow Commission employees to participate as voting members and to accept leadership positions in voluntary standard development groups, subject to prior approval by the Office of the Executive Director (OEX).

DATES: Written comments must be received by October 21, 2013.

For more information, please see today's Federal Register Notice (78 FR 57818.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

CBP Opens Registration for 2013 East Coast Trade Symposium

U.S. Customs and Border Protection ("CBP") announced that registration opens today for the forthcoming 2013 East Coast Trade Symposium and encourages members of the international trade community to attend. The 2013 East Coast Trade Symposium will be held Oct. 24-25, 2013 at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, DC. This year's theme is "Increasing Economic Competitiveness through Global Partnerships and Innovation."

The symposium is expected to cover key trade initiatives, including Automated Commercial Environment ("ACE") single window and full deployment, World Customs Organization, the president’s National Export Initiative, public-private sector engagement, Air Cargo Advance Screening ("ACAS"), agriculture, Centers of Excellence and Expertise ("CEEs"), Trusted Trader Programs and partnership in trade enforcement.

Due to the overwhelming interest in the symposium, CBP will allow up to three representatives per company to afford equal participation from the international trade community.

The registration fee for onsite participation is $108. Registration must be made online at CBP.gov and payment must be made by credit card.

Interested parties may sign up online for the symposium. (CBP 2013 Trade Symposium).

Commissioner Marietta Robinson Meeting with Members of the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA)

Consumer Product Safety Commissioner Marietta Robinson, Christopher Day, Director, Office of Legislative Affairs, and Dottie Lee, Confidential Assistant, Office of the Chairman, meeting with Bill Perdue, VP of Regulatory Affairs, AHFA and Mary Martha McNamara, McNamara & L’Heureux, P.C. Commissioner Robinson and staff will participate in an introductory meeting with members of the American Home Furnishings Alliance.

Commissioner Ann Marie Buerkle Meeting with The American Home Furnishings Alliance

On September 25, 2013, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commissioner Ann Marie Buerkle will be meeting with The American Home Furnishings Alliance. Commissioner Ann Marie Buerkle and Nancy Lowery, Special Assistant, are meeting with Andy Counts, Chief Executive Officer, and Bill Perdue, VP Regulatory Affairs, of The American Home Furnishings Alliance. This meeting is to provide Commissioner Buerkle and her staff with a brief overview of the CPSC matters of interest to their members.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

FTC Proposes Changes to Wool Products Labeling Rules

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comment on proposed changes to its Wool Products Labeling Rules as part of its systematic review of all current FTC rules and guides.

The Wool Products Labeling Rules require that labels on wool products disclose the manufacturer’s or marketer’s name, the country where the product was processed or manufactured, and information about the fiber content. The FTC first issued the Rules under the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939, known as the Wool Act. The agency completed its last review of the Rules in 1998 and modified the Rules in 1998 and 2000. In 2006, the Wool Act was amended by the Wool Suit Fabric Labeling Fairness and International Standards Conforming Act, which provides that wool products identified as cashmere or as containing very fine wools are misbranded unless they have no more than the average fiber diameter specified in the Act.

In January 2012, the FTC sought comment on the Rules. In response to the comments received, the FTC proposes changes designed to clarify and update the Rules, to make them more flexible, and to align them with the Commission’s proposed amendments to the Textile Rules. The proposed changes include incorporating the Wool Act’s new definitions for cashmere and very fine wools, clarifying descriptions of products containing virgin or new wool, and revising the Rules to allow certain hang-tags disclosing fiber trademarks and performance even if they do not disclose the product’s full fiber content.

Written comments must be received on or before November 25, 2013.

The Children’s Place Recalls Footed Pajamas Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Consumers should stop using this product, which is being recalled voluntarily, unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Recall Summary

Name of Product: Children’s one-piece footed pajamas

Hazard: The footed pajamas fail to meet the federal flammability standard for children’s sleepwear, posing a burn hazard to children. The garments are being recalled because they do not meet the tight-fitting sizing requirements.

Remedy: Refund – Consumers should immediately take the recalled pajamas away from children and return them to any The Children’s Place store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: The Children’s Place toll-free at (877) 752-2387 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at www.childrensplace.com and click on Customer Service for more information.

Photos available at http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2013/The-Childrens-Place-Recalls-Footed-Pajamas/

Recall Details

Units: About 38,000

Description: This recall involves three styles of The Children’s Place bunny-themed one-piece cotton footed pajamas. One style is pink with dark pink bunnies and a ruffle at the neck. It was sold in size 9-12 months. This style has a sewn-in label at the side seam with both 2158 and one or more of the following numbers: 042521, 042523, 042571, 042572, 042774 or 042816. The other two styles are both blue/green with bunnies on the feet and bunny print fabric. They were sold in sizes 9-12 months, 12-18 months, 18-24 months, 2T and 3T. One style has bunnies with eyeglasses. The other has bunnies and yellow chicks. Both styles have a sewn-in label at the side seam with both 2598 and one or more of the following numbers: 030647, 030779, 038826, 670409, 670602, 670603 or 945210. “Made with love by PLACE” with a heart outline is printed at the neck of the pajamas.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold exclusively at: The Children’s Place stores nationwide and online at www.childrensplace.com from January 2012 through May 2013 for about $15.

Importer: The Children’s Place, of Secaucus, N.J.

Manufactured in: China

AATCC Millson Award for Invention Recipients Celebration & Dinner Meeting New England Region

Thursday September 26, 2013

5:30pm Social & Networking Reception
6:30pm Special Guest Speaker
Followed by Dinner

Mick Morgans Irish Pub & Restaurant 973 Providence Hwy, Sharon, Mass.
http://mickmorgans.com/ Route 1, next to EconoLodge

Reservations required:
HEIDICarvalho@comcast.net or 774 930 0297

$30.00 per person

Be an individual or corporate sponsor
$30 Student Sponsor
$100+ GOLD PLATE one complimentary meal
$200+ PREMIER Two (2) complimentary meals

Friday, September 13, 2013

Specialty Fabrics Expo 2013 and the Advanced Textiles Conference & Trade Show

The growth and demand for advanced textile applications led to the Industrial Fabric Association International ("IFAI") establishing the Advanced Textiles Conference & Trade Show, to meet the needs of the top level of the industry supply chain and companies that supply roll goods, material and other products or services for advanced applications. These events, held Oct. 23-25, 2013 in Orlando, Fla.

More information at http://www.ifai.com/ifaievents/expoamericas.

GMA Lobby Days in Washington Next Wednesday and Thursday

September 18 and 19 the Geosynthetic Materials Association ("GMA"), a division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International ("IFAI") with be in Washington, D.C., for scheduled Congressional visits.

Time To Apply for Allocation of Wool TRQs

The Department of Commerce is soliciting applications for an allocation of the 2014 tariff rate quotas on certain worsted wool fabric to persons who cut and sew men's and boys' worsted wool suits, suit-type jackets and trousers or weave who weave worsted wool fabrics in the United States.

DATES: To be considered, applications must be received or postmarked by 5 p.m. on October 15, 2013.

Title V of the Trade and Development Act of 2000 (the Act) created two tariff rate quotas ("TRQs"), providing for temporary reductions in the import duties on limited quantities of two categories of worsted wool fabrics suitable for use in making suits, suit-type jackets, or trousers:

    (1) For worsted wool fabric with average fiber diameters greater than 18.5 microns (Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) heading 9902.51.11) the TRQ allows up to 5.5 million square meters of fabric to enter the U.S. at the reduced rate of duty of 10% (the general rate is 25%); and

    (2) for worsted wool fabric with average fiber diameters of 18.5 microns or less (HTS heading 9902.51.12) the TRQ allows up to 5 million square meters of fabric to enter the U.S. duty-free (the general rate is 25%).

The Act requires that the TRQs be allocated to persons who cut and sew men's and boys' worsted wool suits, suit-type jackets and trousers in the United States.

A 2004 amendment included authority for the Department to allocate a TRQ for a new HTS category, HTS 9902.51.16. This HTS category refers to worsted wool fabrics with average fiber diameters of 18.5 microns or less. The amendment provided that HTS 9902.51.16 is for the benefit of persons (including firms, corporations, or other legal entities) who weave such worsted wool fabrics in the United States suitable for making men's and boys' suits.

    The TRQ for HTS 9902.51.16 provided duty-free entry of up to 2,000,000 square meters annually (the general rate is 25%). The amendment requires that the TRQ be allocated to persons who weave worsted wool fabrics with average fiber diameters of 18.5 microns or less, which are suitable for use in making men's and boys' suits, in the United States.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Sunday is Felt Hat Day

September 15th is Felt Hat Day the end of the season when men may wear their straw boaters and Panamas rather than the fur felt fedoras, porkpies, homburgs, Western-style, and bowlers that we wear (You do wear a hat, don't you?) the rest of the year. For more information see www.thefedoralounge.com. Straw hats may not be worn again until Straw Hat Day which is May 15th.

David Trumbull to Speak at Euratex Convention, Nov. 4th, in Berlin

2nd EURATEX CONVENTION - Berlin - registration open now !

Date 4 & 5 November 2013.

Place Deutsche Bank, Berlin

European Textiles and Fashion 2025 – A new industry paradigm driven by innovation” will be the motto of the Convention. European and International representatives from industry, sciences and politics will be invited to engage in a broad and intensive dialogue on the strategically relevant areas of action for the European Textile and Fashion industry in the near future. To see the program or to register, click here. David Trumbull, Principal, Agathon Associates, will be speaking on "Textiles and the Proposed EU-US Trade Agreement" on Monday afternoon.

Customs Ruling Regarding Flocked Children's Coloring Kit

This ruling was by Angelsn Enterprises of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and was regarding a Fashion Angels "Velvet Art Tote" Collection Kit. The kit consists of an easy to follow instruction sheet, "velvet art tote", eight mini velvet posters, six colored markers, and a fashion designed pencil pouch. The article referred to as the "velvet art tote" is an accordion file. The accordion file is constructed of paperboard coated with a velvet flock design. There are paper sheets attached to the tote to divide it into sections. The tote measures approximately 11" x 13". The pencil pouch is made of velvet flock designed textile with an inner layer of plastic. The paperboard posters also have a velvet flock design. Six plastic, felt tipped markers in pink, blue, yellow, red, green and purple are packaged in a clear plastic container. The items are packaged together in a box for retail sale. The kit allows young girls of age 6 to color in velvet flock designs on the tote, poster and pencil pouch.

Customs rules that the applicable subheading for the Fashion Angels "Velvet Art Tote" Collection Kit will be 4820.30.0040, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States ("HTSUS"), which provides for Registers, account books, notebooks, order books, receipt books, letter pads, memorandum pads, diaries and similar articles, exercise books, blotting pads, binders (looseleaf or other), folders, file covers, manifold business forms, interleaved carbon set: Binders (other than book covers), folders and file covers: Other. The rate of duty will be Free.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

American Made Matters Day: A Call-to-Action for American Consumers

ADAMSTOWN, Pa., Sept. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- American Made Matters® (AMM), an organization dedicated to educating consumers on the importance of buying American-made products, has declared November 19, 2013 the first annual American Made Matters® Day. On this day, AMM is encouraging consumers to buy at least one American-made product to show their support for American manufacturing. Additionally, the event will kick-off a movement encouraging Americans to buy products made in America throughout the upcoming holiday shopping season.

"American Made Matters has a list of nearly 200 member companies that use the AMM logo on at least some of their products," said Don Rongione, founder and president of AMM. "We have doubled our member list in the past year and see clear momentum for the American made movement."

AMM has two criteria for allowing its member organizations to use its label on goods: at least 50 percent of the product's cost (labor, materials and overhead) must be incurred in the U.S., and its final assembly or transformation must take place in the U.S. "When you're shopping, take an extra second to look at tags and labels," Rongione suggested. "You may be surprised to find out where the products you buy are coming from, and also how easy it is to replace them with something U.S.-made."

The National Retail Federation estimates that the average American family spends $700 on holiday gifts; if just nine percent more of this was spent on American-made goods, 200,000 jobs could be added to the U.S. economy.

"It's amazing that creating jobs can be as simple as looking at the country of origin tag on a product," says Joy Petty, director of marketing, vacuums at Tacony Corporation, an AMM member company. "The power to strengthen the U.S. economy lies in millions of little decisions consumers make each day. By asking consumers to purchase one US-produced good on American Made Matters Day, we're hoping they will realize just how easy it is to do good for the economy." About American Made Matters®: AMM was launched on July 4, 2009 by the Bollman Hat Company, America's oldest hat manufacturer. It is the only organization committed to promoting American-made goods that is run by manufacturers. It has nearly 200 member companies in a variety of sectors. For more information, visit www.americanmadematters.com, or like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AmericanMadeMatters.

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Friday Deadline to Apply to Appear at USITC Hearing on European Trade Barriers Affecting Small Businesses

The U.S. International Trade Commission ("USITC") is seeking information for a report that will identify trade-related barriers that U.S. small and medium-sized enterprises ("SMEs") perceive as disproportionately (as compared to large firms) affecting their exports to the European Union ("EU").

The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with this at 9:30 a.m. on October 8, 2013. Requests to appear at the hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on September 13, 2013, with the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436. For further information, call 202-205-2000.

The USITC also welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary of the Commission at the above address and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later 5:15 p.m. on October 15, 2013. All written submissions will be available for public inspection.

Monday, September 9, 2013

American Flock Association Annual Meeting Set for Oct. 21 - 22 in Orlando

The 28th Annual Meeting of the American Flock Association ("AFA") will be at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Orlando, Florida on October 21st and 22nd.

There will be presentations from Auggie Tantillo, the new president of the National Council of Textile Organizations, Caroline Ellington and Jasmine Cox, North Carolina State graduate students who will report on their senior design flock projects, Reg Martin Vice President of Bufkor, Inc. and Tom Witham who will bring us up to date on the UMass Darmouth "Flock Energy Absorbing Materials" project for helmets to prevent concussions.

On Wednesday - Friday the AFA will be exhibiting at the IFAI/SGIA show. Stay on and see the show.

Click here for an AFA annual meeting registration form.

USTR Addresses Trade Barriers Impacting Small Business Exports to EU

This month, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative ("USTR"), the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. International Trade Commission ("USITC") are teaming up to convene a nationwide series of roundtables to hear directly from small businesses around the country about specific concerns and trade barriers they face in exporting to the European Union ("EU")as well as their suggestions for reducing these barriers and increasing cooperation with the EU to help small businesses benefit further from new trade and investment opportunities. This major outreach effort to small businesses will help inform a USITC study commissioned by USTR to identify trade barriers in the EU that may disproportionately impact small and medium firms, and help ensure that the United States takes into full account the priorities of small businesses in the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership ("T-TIP") negotiations. The T-TIP was launched in July in Washington, D.C. by the United States and the EU

The roundtables will be held in 20 cities nationwide between September 9 and September 27. Additionally, public hearings will be held in San Jose, California on September 26 and Washington, D.C. on October 8. Small business exporters can find out more on how to participate in a roundtable, the public hearings, or submit written comments at http://www.usitc.gov/332_541_Trade_Barriers.htm. The USITC study will be completed and made public in early 2014.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Re-Shoring and Economic Recovery: Driving A Brighter Future for the Sewn Products Industry.

Sewn Products Equipment & Suppliers of the Americas ("SPESA") will be holding an "Executive Conference" on new opportunities resulting of the re-shoring and near-shoring of sewn products to the Americas.

The program features an impressive list of speakers and panelists including:

  • Dr. Mike Fralix, [TC]²

  • Michele Gloeckler, Walmart

  • Mary O'Rourke, O'Rourke Group Partners

  • Kevin Burke American Apparel and Footwear Association

  • Scott Paul, Alliance for American Manufacturing

  • Auggie Tantillo, National Council of Textile Organizations

  • Michael Wolf, Wells Fargo Securities

  • John Martynec, Brooks Brothers Manufacturing Group

  • John Gallagher, Messe Frankfurt North America

  • Rick Ludolph, Productive Solutions

  • Frank Henderson, Henderson Sewing Machine Co.

  • Al Irvine, American & Efird

  • Mel Berzack, Sewn Products Equipment Co.

  • Jim Hoerig, Computer Generated Solutions

With re-shoring and near-shoring – two of the most important issues of our time – unfolding in front of us, there has never been a more compelling reason to learn from and network with industry leaders, government officials, and fellow executives.

Register now to take advantage of the special reduced registration fee of $295 at https://www.eventville.com/catalog/eventregistration1.asp?eventid=1010507.

Free Webinar: Export Opportunities in Mexico for Textiles and Apparel

The United States Department of Commerce Office of Textiles and Apparel ("OTEXA") will be presenting a free webinar, Thursday, November 7, 2013. at 2:00 p.m. EST. There is no charge to participate, but advance registration is required. For more information, please contact Laurie Mease or Richard Stetson at 202-482-3400 or go to the OTEXA website announcement by clicking here.

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Save the date - 2nd EURATEX CONVENTION - Berlin

David Trumbull will speak on "Textiles and the Proposed EU-US Trade Agreement" at the 2nd Euratex Convention, 4 & 5 November 2013, at Deutsche Bank, Berlin.

"European Textiles and Fashion 2025 – A new industry paradigm driven by innovation" will be the motto of the Convention. European and International representatives from industry, sciences and politics will be invited to engage in a broad and intensive dialogue on the strategically relevant areas of action for the European Textile and Fashion industry in the near future.

The invitation including the detailed programme will be available later this month.

The Amusing Diversion of Overturning a Custom's Classification

Recently at the United States International Court of Trade, Judge Richard W. Goldberg, ruled in favor of Springs Creative Products Group ("SCPG") and against the United States, in the question of the correct tariff classification of a Make-It-Yourself Fleece Throw Kit. Plaintiff SCPG challenged the United States Bureau of Customs and Border Protection's ("Customs" or "CBP") classification of its Make-it-Yourself Fleece Throw Kits under Subheading 6001.22.00 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States ("HTSUS"), 19 U.S.C. § 1202 (2006). The evidence at trial supported a conclusion that the subject merchandise is properly classified under HTSUS 9503.00.00. Based upon the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, the court entered final judgment in favor of SCPG.

At issue was whether the throw was a durable and useful article of textile (properly classified under Subheading 6001.22.00, with rate of duty of 17.2%) or a toy intended for pleasurable diversion (properly classified under Subheading 9503.00.00, with rate of duty of zero). The judge wrote that: "Although the completed throw is durable and of high quality, the court finds that the principal reason that the ultimate purchaser would purchase and use the throw kit is for the amusement and diversion of assembling the throw."

Judge Goldberg's opinion may be read on the CPB website by clicking here, starting at page 131.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

American Textile Hall of Fame

On Monday, September 9, 2013, J. Dukes Wooters, Jr., creator and founder of Cotton Incorporated, will be inducted in the American Textile Hall of Fame at the American Textile History Musuem in Lowell, Massachusetts.

FTZ for Geotextiles Approved in Georgia

On April 8, 2013, Georgia Foreign-Trade Zone, Inc., grantee of FTZ 26, submitted a notification of proposed production activity to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board on behalf of PBR, Inc. d/b/a SKAPS Industries (SKAPS Industries), in Athens, Georgia. The FTZ Board has determined that no further review of the activity is warranted at this time. The production activity described in the notification is authorized for an initial period of five years (to 8-23-2018), subject to the FTZ Act and the FTZ Board's regulations, including Section 400.14, and further subject to a restriction requiring that SKAPS Industries admit all foreign-status polypropylene fiber to the zone under privileged foreign status (19 CFR 146.41).

The SKAP facilities are located at 325, 330, and 335 Athena Drive in Athens (Clarke County), Georgia. The facilities are used for the production of non-woven geotextile fabric using polypropylene fiber. FTZ activity would be limited to the specific foreign-status materials and components and specific finished products described in the submitted notification (as described below) and subsequently authorized by the FTZ Board.

Production under FTZ procedures could exempt SKAPS from customs duty payments on the foreign status polypropylene fiber used in export production. On its domestic sales, SKAPS wanted to be able to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to geotextile fabric (free) for the foreign status polypropylene fiber (4.3%). However the application was opposed by Agru America and a coalition of U.S. textile industry associations made up of the American Fiber Manufacturers Association (AFMA), the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) and the United States Industrial Fabrics Institute (USIFI). In approving the application, the FTZ Board appears to have taken into consideration the opposition by adding the restriction requiring that SKAPS Industries admit all foreign-status polypropylene fiber to the zone under privileged foreign status, meaning that while SKAPS will be able to import the fiber duty free, they will have to pay the duty when the geotextiles leave the factory and enter the U.S. market. So it is, essentially, a duty-deferral. In addition, the approval is for a limited trial period of five years.

FTZ Board Update: Grantee Outreach Event in Miami, Florida, on Sept. 12th

To provide training to officials of grantee organizations, Andrew McGilvray of the Foreigh Trade Zone Board will be hosting an outreach event in Miami, Florida, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on September 12, 2013 (the day after an industry event taking place September 8 - 11 in Miami). There is no charge for the outreach event, but RSVPs are required.

The outreach event will focus on FTZ regulatory provisions that have a direct impact on the grantee role (including public utility and uniform treatment). However, the schedule should allow for Q & A and discussion on any topics that grantees want to raise.

The event location is:
Port of Miami - Cruise Terminal J
1120 Caribbean Way
Miami, Florida 33132

Parking will be available directly across from the terminal in parking garage J.

RSVPs are needed for the outreach event. To register, please e-mail ftz@trade.gov or call Marsha Foust at (202) 482-2862 no later than September 10, 2013. Your RSVP should include your name, your title, and the name of the grantee organization of which you are an official. (Registration is limited to officials of grantee organizations.)