Monday, August 31, 2015

USTR Seeks Comments on Russia's WTO Compliance

On August 18, 2015, the Office of the United States Trade Representative published in the Federal Register (80 FR 52535) Request for Comments and Notice of Public Hearing Concerning Russia's Implementation of Its WTO Obligations.

The interagency Trade Policy Staff Committee (TPSC) will convene a public hearing and seek public comment to assist the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in the preparation of its annual report to Congress on Russia's implementation of its obligations as a Member of the WTO. Written comments are due by 11:59 p.m., Monday, September 28, 2015.

U.S. Terminates Antidumping Review Relating to Woven Electric Blankets from China

On August 18, 2015, the U.S. International Trade Commission published in the Federal Register (80 FR 52500) Woven Electric Blankets From China; Termination of Five-year Review
"The Commission instituted the subject five-year review in July 2015 to determine whether revocation of the antidumping duty order on woven electric blankets from China would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury. On August 18, 2015, the Department of Commerce published notice that it was revoking the order effective August 18, 2015, because "no domestic interested party filed a notice of intent to participate in response to the Initiation Notice by the applicable deadline." (80 FR 49987, August 18, 2015). Accordingly, the subject review is terminated."

Background

On August 18, 2010, the Department published the antidumping duty order on certain woven electric blankets from China. The additional duties were substantial. In addition to the general rate of duty of 11.4% on goods classified at 6301.10.0000 Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States. Three Chinese producers were each assessed antidumping duty of 93.09%, there were:

  • Hung Kuo Electronics (Shenzhen) Company Limited
  • Ningbo V.K. Industry & Trading Co., Ltd.
  • Ningbo Jifa Electrical Appliances Co., Ltd. or Ningbo Jinchun Electric Appliances Co., Ltd. 93.09%

Other Chinese producers were assessed antidumping duty of 174.85%

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Federal Business Opportunities through August 26, 2015

Recently posted federal business opportunities.
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             RBPO Course - Individual Equipment
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             RBPO Course - Training Gear
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Vector 3 Complete parachute systems, OR EQUAL
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue
Agency:            General Services Administration
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             HAMMOCK,JUNGLE
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             R&R Marketing Give Aways
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Bomb Disposal Suits
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Transport Officer Uniforms
Agency:            Department of the Interior
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Aircrew Vests
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Solicitation for Touch Tech Gloves for 811 OSS
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             BAG,DUFFEL
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             LAMINATED PLASTIC
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             MITTEN SET,FLYER'S
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FLAG,NATIONAL
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             TENT,MX SHELTER, TAN,
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Pole Tent -  Wildfire
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Cold Weather Thermal Clothing
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Pop-Up Tent
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             USMC Light Duty Glove Insert 
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Gray Uniform Shirts for West Point Military Academy
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             High Threat Plate Harnesses
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             PHMSA Procurement of Uniforms 
Agency:            Department of Transportation
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             PHMSA Procurement of Uniforms for OPS
Agency:            Department of Transportation
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             POLY MICRO DENIER - BERRY AMENDMENT COMPLIANT
Agency:            Department of Justice
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Short Sleeve T-Shirts for Recruiting and Retention
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             T-shirts
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             POLYESTER/SPANDEX FABRIC - BERRY AMENDMENT COMPLIANT
Agency:            Department of Justice
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Advanced Combat Helmet Generation II (ACH GEN II)
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             LAMINATED PLASTIC
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Pool Canopies
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             ACADEMIC UNIFORM PANTS
Agency:            Department of Labor
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             ACADEMIC UNIFORM SHIRTS
Agency:            Department of Labor
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Optidome Canopy
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Deployment Gear for Chaplain Staff
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FIBERGLASS CLOTH
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             EXFIL CARBON WITH SHROUD COYOTE M/L
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Entrance Wall Assembly, Fabric Assembly, End
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Various Awning Installations at American Embassy Kuwait
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SHOULDER CORD,INFAN
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SHOULDER CORD,INFAN
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Mortar Backpack
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FLAG AND POLE SET
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Anti-Terrorism Force Protection Training Gear
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Parkas
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Synopsis for Winter and Summer Boots
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Computer backpacks
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GLOVES, BARBED WIRE
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             MITTEN, TRIGGER FINGER
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GLOVES, RAPPELLING
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             BODY ARMOR
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             EXPLOSIVE COVERALLS
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             T-shirts
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             CHEMICAL AND HEAT PROTECTIVE GLOVES 
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             VARIOUS CLOTHING ITEMS
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Cold Weather Thermal Clothing
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Conductive Shoes
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Roller Bags
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Procurement of Linear Density Polyethylene Liner
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Trunks, Blue, Coast Guard
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FAST CARBON WITH SKELETON SHROUD
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Short Sleeve T-Shirts for Recruiting and Retention
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Backpacks for Nebraska Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Female Overblouse
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Rain Gear
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             USAF Bands Ceremonial Overcoat
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             KYANG-STS-MULTI ENVIRONMENT CLOTHING
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------

Clients of Agathon Associates and subscribers to Agathon Associates' Trade Advisor Service can find links to the full solicitations at www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/berry/fbo.htm. You will need to enter your username and password. If you do not know your username and password email David Trumbull at david@agathonassociates.com.

Department of Defense to Buy Made in USA Flags

Today the U.S. Department of Defense issued a final rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement ("DFARS") to implement sections of the Department of Defense Appropriations Acts for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015 that prohibit use of funds made available under these acts for the purchase or manufacture of a flag of the United States, unless such flag is manufactured in the United States.

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Army Corps of Engineers Awards Sandbag and Poly Sheeting Contract

Lapac Manufacturing Inc., Crowley, Louisiana, was awarded a $9,322,800 modification (P00002) to contract W912EK-15-D-0003 for sandbags and poly sheeting for the National Flood Flight Center, Rock Island, Illinois, with an estimated completion date of Sept. 30, 2017. Funding and work location will be determined with each order. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island, Illinois, the contracting activity.

Monday, August 24, 2015

Heimtextil 2016 - OTEXA Presents U.S.A. Pavillion

Date: January 12-15th, 2016
Location: Frankfurt, Germany
Visitors: With around 68,000 trade visitors from 128 countries, Heimtextil is the world’s largest trade fair for home and contract textiles. Its strong international orientation and high visitor proportion of 81% key decision makers create the ideal venue for developing new target groups and order taking.
Exhibitors: Over 2,759 exhibitors from 68 countries were attracted to Heimtextil 2015.

Cost: Participation is $950 for the OTEXA Sample Booth and limited to 5 U.S. companies.

Why Should You Exhibit: Heimtextil is a meeting place for buyers from all over the world and consequently offers new points of contact to highly promising business regions. More than 67% of trade buyers came from outside Germany at the Heimtextil 2014 trade fair.

For questions please call Mary Lynn Landgraf at 202-482-7909 or email her at Mary-Lynn.Landgraf@trade.gov.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

DoD Announces Arc Flash Uniforms and Personal Protection & Equipment Industry Day

The U.S. Department of Defense Washington Headquarters Services will be conducting a Small Business Industry Outreach Day on August 25, 2015 from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm EST at the Pentagon Reservation located in Arlington, Virginia 20301. The objective of this conference is to enhance Small Business Participation for the Arc Flash Uniform and Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE") FY16 Procurement Opportunity for Providers of Arc Flash Uniforms and Personal Protection & Equipment (PPE).

Federal Business Opportunities through August 19, 2015

Recently posted federal business opportunities.
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Sources Sought Notice - AP-PPE, Green Suit, Training, with Collar
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Sources Sought Notice - AP-PPE, Green Suit with Collar
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Sources Sought Notice - AP-PPE, Green Suit, Training, with Hood
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Sources Sought Notice - AP-PPE, Green Suit with Hood
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Sources Sought Notice - AP-PPE Blue Suit, Training, with Hood
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Sources Sought Notice - AP-PPE Blue Suit with Hood
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Rubber Gloves
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Canopy
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Shoe Men's Dress Poromeric
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Disposable Coveralls, Color Orange
Agency:            Department of Justice
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             DCU Patches
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             BUCKLE
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Provide and install replacement awnings
Agency:            Department of the Interior
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Swimmers Vest and Pouches
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Thermal Blanket Pool Cover
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Coat, Men's, Poly/Wool, GAB, MC, Green, Shade 2212 / Belt, Men's Coat, Poly/Wool, GAB, MC, Green, Shade 2212 / Keeper, Belt-Strap, Poly/Wool, GAB, MC, Green, Shade 2212
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             USMC Light Duty Glove Insert 
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Insignia
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             84 -- Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue
Agency:            General Services Administration
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Polymide Aerogel
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Solicitation from Source Sought W91243-15-T-l018
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Conductive Shoes
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Massif Elements Jacket USAF, in multi-cam pattern (same OR similar)
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             JECC-JPASE Civilian Uniforms
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:              Individual Tactical Equipment
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION BRAND NAME MANDATORY WIGGYS USAF SURVIVAL CLOTHING SHELTER AND SLEEP SYSTEM
Agency:            Department of Transportation
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             INSIGNIA,RANK,OFFIC
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Marine Corps Dress Glove
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             MCoE  Ranger IMSO ACU's and Accessories
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Fireman Protective Clothing
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             THREAD GORTEX 8 OZ. 
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SMOKE CURTAIN 54" W X 100 LYD
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Fireman Protective Clothing
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             INL/Costa Rica - Penitentiary Police: Ballistic Vest
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Basketball Jerseys
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Football Jerseys
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Trigger Finger Mitt Shell with Liner (3 Finger Mitt Shell)
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Maritime Assault Suit Systems (MASS)
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Fitness Center Uniforms
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Trigger Finger Mitt Shell with Liner (3 Finger Mitt Shell)
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Vital Torso Protection - Full Rate Production
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Transport Officer Uniforms
Agency:            Department of the Interior
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             INL/Costa Rica - Penitentiary Police: Ballistic Vest
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FLAG,NATIONAL
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Maintainer Boots
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:              Individual Tactical Equipment
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FLAG, ORGANIZATIONAL 
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             ACU/Operational Camouflage Pattern Coats and Trousers
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             New Mexico Army National Guard Promotional Backpacks and Duffle Bags
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Tents // Sources Sought
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------

Clients of Agathon Associates and subscribers to Agathon Associates' Trade Advisor Service can find links to the full solicitations at www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/berry/fbo.htm. You will need to enter your username and password. If you do not know your username and password email David Trumbull at david@agathonassociates.com.

Laundering Temperature Debate Heats Up

The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorist is seeking input regarding the best way to handle laundering test conditions. For more information visit http://www.aatcc.org/pub/aatcc-news/newsletters/0815b-story3/.

Request for Public Comments To Compile the National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers

The Office of the United States Trade Representative ("USTR") Policy Staff Committee ("TPSC") is requesting interested persons to submit comments to assist it in identifying significant barriers to U.S. exports of goods, services, and U.S. foreign direct investment for inclusion in the National Trade Estimate Report ("NTE"). The TPSC invites written comments from the public on issues that USTR should examine in preparing the NTE.

Highlights relating to textiles, apparel, and footwear from the 2015 NTE are available from Agathon Associates at http://www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/ustr/trade-barriers-2015.htm

Public comments are due not later than 11:59 p.m., October 28, 2015.

Topics on which the TPSC Seeks Information: To assist USTR in preparing the NTE, commenters should submit information related to one or more of the following categories of foreign trade barriers:

  1. Import policies (e.g., tariffs and other import charges, quantitative restrictions, import licensing, and customs barriers);

  2. Government procurement restrictions (e.g., "buy national policies" and closed bidding);

  3. Export subsidies (e.g., export financing on preferential terms, subsidies provided to equipment manufacturers contingent on export and agricultural export subsidies that displace U.S. exports in third country markets);

  4. Lack of intellectual property protection (e.g., inadequate patent, copyright, and trademark regimes);

  5. Services barriers (e.g., limits on the range of financial services offered by foreign financial institutions, regulation of international data flows, restrictions on the use of data processing, quotas on imports of foreign films, unnecessary or discriminatory technical regulations or standards for telecommunications services and barriers to the provision of services by professionals);

  6. Investment barriers (e.g., limitations on foreign equity participation and on access to foreign government-funded R&D consortia, local content, technology transfer and export performance requirements, and restrictions on repatriation of earnings, capital, fees, and royalties);

  7. Government-tolerated anticompetitive conduct of state-owned or private firms that restrict the sale or purchase of U.S. goods or services in the foreign country's markets;

  8. Trade restrictions affecting electronic commerce (e.g., tariff and non-tariff measures, burdensome and discriminatory regulations and standards, and discriminatory taxation);

  9. Trade restrictions implemented through unwarranted Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, including unwarranted measures justified for purposes of protecting food safety, and animal and plant life or health;

  10. Trade restrictions implemented through unwarranted standards, conformity assessment procedures, or technical regulations (Technical Barriers to Trade) that may have as their objective protecting national security requirements, preventing deceptive practices, or protecting human health or safety, animal or plant life or health, or the environment, but that can be formulated or implemented in ways that create significant barriers to trade (including unnecessary or discriminatory technical regulations or standards for telecommunications products); and

  11. Other barriers (e.g., barriers that encompass more than one category, such as bribery and corruption, or that affect a single sector).

Furthermore, commenters are invited to identify those barriers covered in submissions that may operate as "localization barriers to trade". Localization barriers are measures designed to protect, favor, or stimulate domestic industries, services providers, and or intellectual property at the expense of goods services or intellectual property from other countries, including the provision of subsidies linked to local production.

CPSC Considering Rulemaking on Upholstered Furniture and Other Products Containing Organohalogen Flame Retardants

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission ("CPSC") has received a petition requesting that the CPSC initiate rulemaking under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act ("FHSA") to declare several categories of products containing additive organohalogen flame retardants to be "banned hazardous substances." The Commission invites written comments concerning the petition.

The petition was filed by Earthjustice and the Consumer Federation of America, which are joined by American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Women's Association, Consumers Union, Green Science Policy Institute, International Association of Fire Fighters, Kids in Danger, Philip Landrigan, M.D., M.P.H., League of United Latin American Citizens, Learning Disabilities Association of America, and Worksafe.

Petitioners assert that additive organohalogen flame retardants are used extensively in the consumer products categories that would be covered by their rulemaking request. Petitioners further assert that, based on the physico-chemical properties of additive organohalogen flame retardants, all such chemicals in this class will migrate out of consumer products and persist in the indoor environment. According to petitioners, because organohalogen flame retardants are, as a class, foreign to the human body and inherently toxic due to their physical, chemical, and biological properties, human exposure to these chemicals will result in adverse human health impacts. Finally, petitioners provide data and information regarding adverse human health impacts, which include reproductive impairment, neurological impacts, endocrine disruption and interference with thyroid hormone action, genotoxicity, cancer, and immune disorders.

Specifically addressed in the petition are:

  • Any durable infant or toddler product, children's toy, child care article, or other children's product (other than children's car seats) that contains additive organohalogen flame retardants,

  • Any article of upholstered furniture sold for use in residences and containing additive organohalogen flame retardants,

  • Any mattress or mattress pad with additive organohalogen flame retardants, and

  • Any electronic device with additive organohalogen flame retardants in its plastic casing.

Petitioners assert that declaring the specified categories of products containing additive organohalogen flame retardants to be "banned hazardous substances" is necessary to adequately protect public health and safety. More specifically, petitioners assert that action short of a ban under the FHSA would not adequately protect the public health and safety because warning labeling cannot adequately prevent or control exposure to flame retardants that migrate from products into homes. Furthermore, petitioners argue that the ban must apply to the entire class of additive organohalogen flame retardants because banning only individual chemicals within that class would allow other inherently toxic chemicals within that class to be used.

The CPSC must receive comments on the petition by October 19, 2015.

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Coleman Files Again for Textile FTZ

On August 18, 2015, the Foreign Trade Zone Board published in the Federal Register (80 FR 49986) Application for Additional Production Authority; The Coleman Company, Inc.; Subzone 119I; (Textile-Based Personal Flotation Devices) Sauk Rapids, Minnesota.

An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones ("FTZ") Board by The Coleman Company, Inc. The Coleman facility (252 employees) is located at 1100 Stearns Drive, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota. The facility is used for the production of personal flotation devices and cushions constructed with textile fabrics. In May 2014 Coleman requested FTZ production authority in a notification proceeding). A notification proceeding is a streamlined application well-suited to applications that can be expected to have no domestic manufacturer opposition. It is unclear why Coleman, at that time, chose to use procedures that were unlikely to result in approval. The 2014 application was opposed by Milliken and Company and a coalition of three textile trade associations (AFMA, NCTO, and USIFI). The 2014 application was supported by U.S. Representative Michele Bachmann, Continental Press, Duro Textiles, LLC, Henderson Sewing Machine Company, M-Associates, Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Outdoor Industry Association, U.S. Representative Ed Perlmutter, U.S. Representative Mike Pompeo, Pregis Corporation, SPSI Inc., and T.J. Elias Sales and Service. After an initial review, the requested production authority was approved subject to a restriction that precludes inverted tariff benefits on foreign textile fabrics and cases/bags of textile materials used in production of personal flotation devices and cushions for U.S. consumption. In other words, Coleman got tariff relief comparable to duty drawback and exports and, in the case of goods entering the U.S. market, a deferral of duty during manufacturing a warehousing (with full duty payable when the articles enter U.S. commerce.

This new 2015 pending application seeks to remove the above-mentioned restriction and to add several new components to Coleman's scope of authority by requesting authority for Coleman to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to personal flotation devices (4.5%, 7.0%) and flotation cushions (6.0%) for the foreign status inputs noted below. This application was submitted under different procedures than the 2014 application, procedures which require Coleman to make a much fuller and stronger case than under the streamlined procedures. The request indicates that the savings from FTZ procedures would help improve the plant's international competitiveness.

Components and materials sourced from abroad (representing 16% of the value of the finished products) include: Water soluble sensing elements; plastic carry bags; nylon and polyester woven fabrics; webbing of man-made fibers; neoprene fabrics; and, knit polyester fleece fabrics (duty rate ranges from 5 to 20%).

Public comment is invited from interested parties. The closing period for their receipt is October 19, 2015. Rebuttal comments in response to material submitted during the foregoing period may be submitted during the subsequent 15-day period to November 2, 2015.

U.S. Drops Anti-Dumping Duty on Chinese Electric Blankets

The U.S. Department of Commerce is revoking the antidumping duty order on certain woven electric blankets from the People's Republic of China due to lack of interest on the part of any domestic interested party. Under the antidumping law, duties are imposed on imported merchandise when the U.S. Department of Commerce determines that the merchandise is being dumped (sold at "less than fair value" ("LTFV")) and the U.S. International Trade Commission ("USITC") determines that there is material injury or threat of material injury to the domestic industry, or material retardation of the establishment of an industry, "by reason of" those imports. The antidumping law’s provisions are incorporated in Title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930 and have been substantially amended by the Trade Agreements Act of l979, the Trade and Tariff Act of 1984, the Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988, and the 1994 Uruguay Round Agreements Act.

Background

On August 18, 2010, the Department published the antidumping duty order on certain woven electric blankets from China. The additional duties were substantial. In addition to the general rate of duty of 11.4% on goods classified at 6301.10.0000 Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States. Three Chinese producers were each assessed antidumping duty of 93.09%, there were:

  • Hung Kuo Electronics (Shenzhen) Company Limited
  • Ningbo V.K. Industry & Trading Co., Ltd.
  • Ningbo Jifa Electrical Appliances Co., Ltd. or Ningbo Jinchun Electric Appliances Co., Ltd. 93.09%

Other Chinese producers were assessed antidumping duty of 174.85%

Monday, August 17, 2015

GAO Issues Report on AGOA

On August 5, 2015, the Government Accountability Office issued report GAO-15-701, Africa Growth and Opportunity Act: Insights from Other Countries' Preference Programs and Participation in Trade Negotiations.

Summary

The United States' African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has differences from and similarities to 26 trade preference programs offered by other developed and developing countries in three key areas that can affect program performance in increasing and diversifying trade.

  • Country eligibility. AGOA is unique in that it focuses eligibility on sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. Most other countries' trade preference programs do not restrict eligibility to SSA countries.

  • Product coverage. AGOA and some other countries' trade preference programs provide fairly comprehensive coverage of products, but exclude some agricultural and other products that are important SSA exports.

  • Rules of origin. Like other countries' trade preference programs, AGOA has rules of origin that determine which products qualify for coverage. Some countries, including the United States have recently made their rules of origin less restrictive, to make it easier for beneficiary countries to take greater advantage of these programs.

In 2014, the United States International Trade Commission reviewed studies comparing the performance of trade preference programs and found that the European Union's (EU) preference programs have had overall greater success in increasing trade with Africa and that AGOA had more success in increasing diversification in the range of products exported from Africa. Research on China's and India's trade preference programs suggests that their fairly new programs could have significant impacts on SSA trade and that they are among the biggest and fastest growing markets for sub-Saharan exports.

As the United States continues to pursue expanded trade and a more two-way trade relationship with African partners at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and elsewhere; SSA countries' recent participation in bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations provides insights that can inform future U.S. negotiations. For example, years of bilateral negotiations between SSA countries and the EU have recently resulted in Economic Partnership Agreements with 32 SSA countries. Trade experts and SSA and EU officials GAO spoke with provided information about these negotiations that indicates that transitioning from non-reciprocal trade preference programs, such as AGOA, to two-way trade agreements like the Economic Partnership Agreements with SSA countries may require:

  • many years to finalize and implement,

  • the establishment of timeframes to end access to trade preference programs,

  • a willingness to consider limiting the initial scope of the agreements, and

  • an acknowledgment that aspects of the agreements may have tradeoffs and could constrain SSA countries' ability to integrate into the global economy.

The involvement of SSA countries in recent multilateral negotiations at the WTO also yields important insights for U.S. agencies when negotiating with these countries. SSA and WTO officials told GAO that several Impediments, such as inadequate funding and staffing, can hamper SSA countries' ability to participate fully in multilateral negotiations. However, recent bilateral and multinational funded training and other efforts have helped expand SSA country participation at the WTO.

Friday, August 14, 2015

African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Request for Public Comments on Annual Review of Country Eligibility for Benefits Under AGOA in Calendar Year 2016; Scheduling of Hearing, and Request for Public Comments

The Office of the United States Trade Representative has announced the initiation the annual review of the eligibility of the sub-Saharan African countries to receive the benefits of the African Growth and Opportunity Act ("AGOA").

DATES: September 3, 2015: Deadline for filing requests to appear at the September 10, 2015 public hearing, and for filing pre-hearing briefs, statements, or comments on sub-Saharan African countries' AGOA eligibility. September 10, 2015: AGOA Implementation Subcommittee will convene a public hearing on AGOA eligibility. September 16, 2015: Deadline for filing post-hearing briefs, statements, or comments on this matter.

The President may designate a country as a beneficiary sub-Saharan African country eligible for these benefits of AGOA if he determines that the country meets the eligibility criteria.

Section 104 of AGOA includes requirements that the country has established or is making continual progress toward establishing, inter alia: A market-based economy; the rule of law, political pluralism, and the right to due process; the elimination of barriers to U.S. trade and investment; economic policies to reduce poverty; a system to combat corruption and bribery; and the protection of internationally recognized worker rights. In addition, the country may not engage in activities that undermine U.S. national security or foreign policy interests or engage in gross violations of internationally recognized human rights. Please see section 104 of AGOA and section 502 of the 1974 Act for a complete list of the AGOA eligibility criteria.

For 2015, 39 countries were designated as beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries:

  1. Angola
  2. Republic of Benin
  3. Republic of Botswana
  4. Burkina Faso
  5. Burundi
  6. Republic of Cabo Verde
  7. Republic of Cameroon
  8. Republic of Chad
  9. Federal Islamic Republic of Comoros
  10. Republic of Congo
  11. Republic of Cote d'Ivoire
  12. Republic of Djibouti
  13. Ethiopia
  14. Gabonese Republic
  15. Republic of Ghana
  16. Republic of Guinea
  17. Republic of Guinea-Bissau
  18. Republic of Kenya
  19. Kingdom of Lesotho
  20. Republic of Liberia
  21. Republic of Madagascar
  22. Republic of Malawi
  23. Republic of Mali
  24. Islamic Republic of Mauritania
  25. Republic of Mauritius
  26. Republic of Mozambique
  27. Republic of Namibia
  28. Republic of Niger
  29. Federal Republic of Nigeria
  30. Republic of Rwanda
  31. Sao Tome & Principe
  32. Republic of Senegal
  33. Republic of Seychelles
  34. Republic of Sierra Leone
  35. Republic of South Africa
  36. United Republic of Tanzania
  37. Republic of Togo
  38. Republic of Uganda
  39. Republic of Zambia

The following sub-Saharan African countries were not designated as beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries in 2015:

  1. Central African Republic
  2. Democratic Republic of Congo
  3. The Gambia
  4. Republic of Equatorial Guinea
  5. State of Eritrea
  6. Somalia
  7. Republic of South Sudan
  8. Republic of Sudan
  9. Kingdom of Swaziland
  10. Republic of Zimbabwe

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Flowers By Zoe Recalls Girls Striped Hoodie and Neon Tie Dye Jacket Due to Strangulation Hazard

Recall Details

Units: About 122

Description: This recall involves girls zippered striped hoodies and tie dye jackets. The lightweight hoodie has multi-colored stripes (yellow, white, orange and pink). It has a drawstring hood, zip-up front and pockets on both sides. It is made from 100% Rayon and was sold in sizes S (7, 8), M (10) and L (12). A label sewn into the garment’s neck seam reads “Flowers By Zoe” and a label sewn into the side seam reads style #SRH125MS.

The tie-dye jacket has tie-dye-effect dark blue, teal, orange, pink and lime green horizontal stripes. It has a drawstring hood, zip up front and pockets on both sides. It is made from 100% Rayon and was sold in sizes S (7, 8), M (10) and L (12). A label sewn into the garment’s neck seam reads “Flowers By Zoe” and another label in the side seam reads style #NRH125TA.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the hoodies and jackets away from children and remove the drawstring to eliminate the hazard. Consumers can return the hoodies to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Sold at Several children’s boutique specialty retailers; such as LaBella Flora in Auburn IN; Kids Only in Los Angeles, CA; Kids Biz, Dallas, TX and Polkadot Pony in Jackson, MS, and other on-line childrens stores; such as Everything But the Princess, from February 2015 through May 2015 for about $45.

Importer: Flowers By Zoe, Melville, NY

Manufactured in Indonesia

Request for Public Comments on the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act and the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act: Report to Congress

The Office of the United States Trade Representative ("USTR" Trade Policy Staff Committee ("TPSC") is seeking the views of interested parties on the operation of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act ("CBERA"), as amended by the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act ("CBTPA") (19 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.). Section 212(f) of the CBERA, as amended, requires the President to submit a report to Congress regarding the operation of the CBERA and CBTPA (together commonly referred to as the Caribbean Basin Initiative, or CBI) on or before December 31, 2001, and every two years thereafter. The TPSC invites written comments concerning the operation of the CBI, including comments on the performance of each CBERA and CBTPA beneficiary country under the criteria described in sections 212(b), 212(c), and 213(b)(5)(B) of CBERA, as amended. This information will be used in the preparation of the report to Congress on the operation of the program. Public comments are due at USTR no later than 5 p.m., October 5, 2015.

Federal Business Opportunities through August 12, 2015

Recently posted federal business opportunities.
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             PHMSA Procurement of Uniforms for OPS
Agency:            Department of Transportation
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Multi-Agency Uniform Contract Industry Day
Agency:            Department of the Interior
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             KYANG-STS-MULTI ENVIRONMENT CLOTHING
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Extereme Cold Weather Clothing
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             INL/Costa Rica - Penitentiary Police: Ballistic Vest
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Composite Safety-Toe Footwear
Agency:            Department of Justice
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Canopies
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Pool Canopies
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Promotional Back Packs and Duffle Bags
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             MTPD Bullet Resistant Vests
Agency:            Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Fitness Center Uniforms
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Nylon Tarps
Agency:            Department of the Interior
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Female Overblouse
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             10 x 10 Classic Frame Pop Up Tents with Branding (TXARNG LOGO) 
Qty: 160 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Med-Eng EOD Bomb Suit Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: HIgh Visibility Safety Vests Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Boots for Belize Prison Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Fireman Protective Clothing Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES, BARBED WIRE Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Janesville Structual Firefighting Gear Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TENT Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tents // Sources Sought Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Provide an assortment of Church Style Banners for Both Chapels on Fort Wainwright, AK 99703 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Extereme Cold Weather Clothing Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Cargo and Helo Bags Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployment Gear Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TAPE,TEXTILE Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Executive Aviator Rolling Bags Agency: Department of Justice -------------------------------------------------------

Clients of Agathon Associates and subscribers to Agathon Associates' Trade Advisor Service can find links to the full solicitations at www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/berry/fbo.htm. You will need to enter your username and password. If you do not know your username and password email David Trumbull at david@agathonassociates.com.

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Army Coat Contracts Awarded

Golden Manufacturing Co. Inc., Golden, Mississippi, has been awarded a maximum $37,458,912 modification (P00121) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPM1C1-13-D-1063) with four one-year option periods for Army combat uniform coats. This is a firm-fixed-price contract. Locations of performance are Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina and Georgia, with an Aug. 14, 2016, performance completion date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2015 through fiscal 2016 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Puerto Rico Apparel Manufacturing Corp., Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $15,882,075 modification (P00120) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPM1C1-13-D-1065) with four one-year option periods for Army combat uniforms. This is a firm-fixed-price contract. Locations of performance are Puerto Rico and Mississippi, with an Aug. 14, 2016, performance completion date. Using military services are Army and Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2015 through fiscal 2016 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Monday, August 10, 2015

USTR Request for Comments and Notice of Public Hearing Concerning China's Compliance With WTO Commitments

In today's Federal Register the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced that the interagency Trade Policy Staff Committee ("TPSC") will convene a public hearing and seek public comment to assist the Office of the United States Trade Representative ("USTR") in the preparation of its annual report to the Congress on China's compliance with the commitments made in connection with its accession to the World Trade Organization ("WTO").

DATES: Persons wishing to testify at the hearing must provide written notification of their intention, as well as a summary of their testimony, by Wednesday, September 23, 2015. Written comments are also due by Wednesday, September 23, 2015. A hearing will be held in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, October 7, 2015.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

China became a Member of the WTO on December 11, 2001. In accordance with section 421 of the U.S.-China Relations Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106-286), USTR is required to submit, by December 11 of each year, a report to Congress on China's compliance with commitments made in connection with its accession to the WTO, including both multilateral commitments and any bilateral commitments made to the United States. In accordance with section 421, and to assist it in preparing this year's report, the TPSC is hereby soliciting public comment. Last year's report is available on USTR's Internet Web site (https://ustr.gov/sites/default/files/2014-Report-to-Congress-Final.pdf).

Textile Foreign Trade Zone Turned Down by Department of Commerce

On August 10, 2015, the FTZ Board published notice in the Federal Register (80 FR 47895) Expanded Production Authority Not Approved; Foreign-Trade Zone 169; ASO, LLC; Subzone 169A; (Textile Fabric Adhesive Bandage Coating and Production); Sarasota, Florida.

The application, which would have saved ASO, LLC the import duty on uncoated textile fabrics sourced from abroad (representing some 22% of the value of the finished product) including the following: 100% polyester, 100% cotton dyed plain weave, and 62% cotton/38% polyester plain weave (duty rates range from 7 to 12%) was filed in March 2013. It was opposed by Copland Industries and the American Fiber Manufactures Association, the National Council of Textile Organizations, and the United States Industrial Fabrics Institute.

More information on this FTZ filing is available at http://agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/ftz/2013-24-B.htm (you will need your Agathon Associates' client username and password, if you are not sure of your username and password, email david at david@agathonassociates.com).

Friday, August 7, 2015

Customs Publishes Liberalization of Certain Documentary Evidence Required as Proof of Exportation on Drawback Claims

On August 7, 2015, U.S. Customs and Border Protection published in the Federal Register (80 FR 47405) Liberalization of Certain Documentary Evidence Required as Proof of Exportation on Drawback Claims.

SUMMARY: This document amends U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations by removing some of the requirements for documentation used to establish proof of exportation for drawback claims. Currently, claimants must provide originally signed documentary evidence or a certified copy of such documentary evidence to establish the date and fact of exportation of articles for drawback purposes. This document also amends various sections of title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to reflect that there is no longer a legal requirement that the export invoice for mail shipments be certified. Additionally, this document amends Appendix B to part 191 of title 19 so that the Appendix reflects previous regulatory amendments closing four drawback offices. Finally, this document amends CBP regulations to reflect the change from the legacy agency name of U.S. Customs Service to the current agency name of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and to make other non-substantive editorial changes.

Thursday, August 6, 2015

The Children’s Place Recalls Boys’ Varsity Jackets Due to Choking Hazard

Hazard: The metal snaps on the jackets could detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Remedy: Refund. Consumers should immediately take the recalled jackets away from children and return them to any The Children’s Place store for a full refund. If the jacket was purchased online, contact The Children’s Place to receive a postage-paid envelope to return the jacket for a full refund. Consumer Contact: The Children’s Place toll free at (877) 752 2387 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at www.childrensplace.com

Photos available at http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2015/The-Childrens-Place-Recalls-Boys-Varsity-Jackets/

Units: About 13,700 (in addition, 2,200 were sold in Canada)

Description: This recall involves boys’ knitted fleece varsity jackets in sizes 6 months through 5T. The jackets are royal blue with gray sleeves and have a baseball character with a red hat on the left chest area. “The Children’s Place” is printed on a tag at the neck of the jacket. A white sewn-in label at the side seam has product numbers 158805, 158806, 158807 and vendor number 1408.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold exclusively at: The Children’s Place stores nationwide and online at www.childrensplace.com from December 2014 through July 2015 for about $30.

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

Made in Pakistan

Precious Cargo Recalls Infant One-Piece Garments Due to Choking Hazard

Name of Product: Precious Cargo infant one-piece garments

Hazard: The snaps on the one-piece garments can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Remedy: Refund. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled garments and contact Precious Cargo to return them for a full refund. Consumer Contact: Precious Cargo toll free at (888) 770-7018 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at www.preciouscargokids.com

Photos available at http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2015/Precious-Cargo-Recalls-Infant-One-Piece-Garments/

Units: About 479,000

Description: This recall involves Precious Cargo® infant one-piece garments with a three snap bottom closure. The garments are 100 percent cotton and were sold in sizes 6M, 12M and 18M in the following solid colors: athletic heather, aquatic blue, candy pink, clover green, jet black, lime, navy, purple, red, royal, sangria, white and yellow. “Precious Cargo” and an elephant are printed on a blue tag sewn into the neck area. Style number CAR40 is printed on a white label sewn into the left inside seam. The one-pieces were sold as promotional products with a corporate or community organization logo on the front.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold at: Promotional product distributors, screen printers, embroiderers and gift shops from July 2014 through July 2015 for about $4.

Importer/Distributor: SanMar Corp., of Issaquah, Wash.

Manufactured in: Vietnam

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

David Trumbull to Teach Textile Markets at University of Rhode Island

David Trumbull, principal, Agathon Associates, has accepted at offer from the University of Rhode Island Department of Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design to teach TMD 433 - Textile Markets for the fall 2015 semester. The upper-level undergraduate course covers the economic, social and political dimensions of the textile & apparel sector in a global economy and the implications for production, distribution and consumption of textile & apparel products in major world markets. The course will be taught as a hybrid, with most instruction via distance learning from the Boston office of Agathon Associations and some in person lectures.

Federal Business Opportunities through August 5, 2015

Recently posted federal business opportunities.
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             EZUP TENTS AND TENT ACCESSORIES
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             CLOTH,BATISTE
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SUNBRELLA UPHOLSTERY MATERIAL
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             KYANG-STS-WATER & HIKING SHOES
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Shirts & Trousers, Disposable, Otto Fuel Protective
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GLOVE ANTI-C SZ10
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             KYANG-STS-Extreme cold weather garments
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             PHMSA Procurement of Uniforms 
Agency:            Department of Transportation
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Football Jerseys
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Marine Corps, Running Suit Jacket and Pants
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GLASS THREAD
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Leather Ski Boot, 75mm Tod (LSB)
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Med-Eng EOD Bomb Suit
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             EXFIL CARBON WITH SHROUD COYOTE M/L
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             TENT
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             CLOTH,COATED
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SLIP RESISTANT GLOVES
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Shirts & Trousers, Disposable, Otto Fuel Protective
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Football Jerseys
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             100% POLY, MICRO, DENIER, BLACK
Agency:            Department of Justice
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Beach House Shade Sails
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FOOD SERVICE UNIFORMS
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SLIP RESISTANT GLOVES
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Boots for Belize Prison
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             CLOTH,LAMINATED
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Fireman Protective Clothing
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Eagle Vest 
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             OPTION - N6303816RCCS503 15TG188 NCTAMS LANT DET CUTLER SAFETY BOOTS SHOES W OPTIONS
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             VARIOUS CLOTHING ITEMS
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------

Clients of Agathon Associates and subscribers to Agathon Associates' Trade Advisor Service can find links to the full solicitations at www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/berry/fbo.htm. You will need to enter your username and password. If you do not know your username and password email David Trumbull at david@agathonassociates.com.

Textile Industry Pundit Claims NCTO Wrong on TPA and TPP

In an opinion piece likely to ruffle many feathers in the domestic U.S. textile industry, and likely among the U.S. negotiation team at the Office of the United States Trade Representative, long-time U.S. textile advocate and observer, Steve Warner writes NCTO was Wrong to Support TPA and TPP So Early in the Game. Steve has been publishing a widely read and avidly followed industrial and technical textiles blog, the BeaverLake6 Report, for three years. Before that he put in 35 years with the Industrial Fabrics Association International.

Tuesday, August 4, 2015

USITC Launches Investigation on the Impact on the U.S. Economy of All Trade Agreements Implemented under Trade Authorities since 1984

The U.S. International Trade Commission ("USITC") has initiated an investigation of the economic impact on the United States of all trade agreements with respect to which Congress has enacted an implementing bill under trade authorities procedures since January 1, 1984.

The investigation, Economic Impact of Trade Agreements Implemented Under Trade Authorities Procedures, 2016 Report, is required by section 105(f)(2) of the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015.

As required by the statute, the USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, will submit its report to the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means and the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance by June 29, 2016. The report is the first of two required by the statute; the Commission will submit a second report in five years.

The Commission’s report will cover --

The USITC seeks input for this report from all interested parties. The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation on November 17, 2015. Requests to appear at the hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on November 2, 2015, 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 than 5:15 p.m. on February 5, 2016. All written submissions, except for confidential business information, will be available for public inspection.

Now You Can Remember Fido by Wearing Him

A Quebec company, Yarns of Memories, will take your pet dog's hair and spin it into yarn. Depending on the quantity of hair supplied, you can choose to transform the yarn into several articles such as a shawl, scarf, and mittens, or keep the yarn to knit an article yourself to memorialize the animal. They call the yarn "chiengora" from "chien," the French word for dog, and angora, a breed of rabbit known for its soft fur.

Agathon Associates became aware of chiengora when recently (July 22, 2015) U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued Yarns of Memories a Binding Ruling (N265990) establishing that the that the applicable subheading for the "chiengora" yarn will be 5110.00.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the Unites States ("HTSUS") which provides for yarn of coarse animal hair or horsehair (including gimped horsehair yarn) whether or not put up for retail sale. The duty rate will be free.

Yarns of Memories also stated that the "chiengora" might be mixed with alpaca or wool, which would change the classification.

Manufacturing Council to Meet August 19th

The United States Manufacturing Council (Council) will hold the third meeting of the current members' term by teleconference on Wednesday, August 19, 2015. The Council was established in April 2004 to advise the Secretary of Commerce on matters relating to the U.S. manufacturing industry.

The purpose of the meeting is for Council members to review and deliberate on recommendations developed by the Workforce subcommittee looking at issues of improving the image of manufacturing as a career path and developing skilled workers for consideration by the Manufacturing Council. The agenda may change to accommodate Council business.

The textile industry is represented on the Council by Jenny Houston, Executive Vice President, Warwick Mills; New Ipswich, N.H., who appointed in February, 2015, by Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritsker.