"On April 18, 2017, the President signed Executive Order 13788, Buy American and Hire American, which requires agencies to "scrupulously monitor, enforce, and comply with Buy American Laws." Guidance regarding implementation of this executive order is forthcoming. At the same time, recent fraud convictions related to compliance with Buy American laws highlight the need for the defense acquisition workforce to be vigilant in its oversight and enforcement strategies. Over the past several years, the Department of Defense Inspector General (DoDIG) conducted four audits on DoD's compliance with the Berry Amendment and Buy American Act. The DoDIG identified numerous contracts where the Berry Amendment and Buy American Act clauses should have been, but were not included in contracts, where compliance with the law and regulations where neither applied nor properly justified, or where potential Anti-Deficiency Act violations may have occurred.
"In light of the above, and to improve compliance with both the Berry Amendment and the Buy American Act, my staff has worked with Defense Acquisition University to update continuous learning modules CLC 125 -Berry Amendment and CLC 027 -Buy American Act. The revised CLC 125 is available now and CLC 027 will be available in July 2017. Members of your contracting workforce should complete these revised training modules as part of their on-going professional development and towards achievement of their continuous learning requirement."
Friday, June 30, 2017
Department of Defense to Step up Berry Amendment and Buy American Act Education and Enforcement
Burt’s Bees Baby Recalls Infant Coveralls Due to Choking Hazard
Recall Details
Description: This recall involves infant Butterfly Garden Coverall & Hat Sets. The coveralls are 100% organic cotton, and were sold in blossom pink with white butterflies. There is a white ruffle around the neck that runs down the front of the garment. It has snaps in the crotch and was sold in infant sizes NB, 3M, 6M, and 9M. The manufacture date code of August 2016 (08/2016) is printed on the inside garment tag located inside the seam of the garment. “Burt’s Bees Baby” and the garment sizes are printed on the inside back of the garment. Only coverall sets with style number LY24195 on the hangtag are included in the recall.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 11 reports of the snaps detaching from the coveralls. No injuries have been reported.
Sold At: Babies R Us, BuyBuy Baby, and online at babiesrus.com, buybuybaby.com, amazon.com, kohls.com, target.com, zulily.com, diapers.com, hautelook.com, and burtsbeesbaby.com from December 2016 through May 2017 for about $18.
Importer(s): Ayablu Inc., DBA Burt’s Bees Baby, of Fairfield, Conn.
Manufactured In: India.
Modernization of the Customs Brokers Examination
On September 14, 2016, CBP published a document in the Federal Register (81 FR 63149) proposing to amend title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations ("19 CFR") to modernize the customs broker's examination provisions. Specifically, CBP proposed amending the customs broker's examination provisions, which are contained in 19 CFR part 111, to permit automation of the examination. CBP proposed removing references to the "written" examination to accommodate the transition from the paper and pencil format to an electronic format. To cover the costs of administering the examination, plus the cost of automating the examination, CBP proposed to increase the fee from $200 to $390. Today CBP published another FR Notice adopting those changes as a Final Rule.
Travel Goods Added to GSP List
On June 30, 2017, the Executive Office of the President published in the Federal Register (82 FR 30711) Proclamation 9625 (of June 29, 2017) -- To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized System of Preferences and for Other Purposes.
Agathon Associates note: Of interest to our readers is Annex 1, section A, which modifies the Rates of Duty 1-Special Subcolumn for certain travel goods of Heading 4202 (Trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, attache cases, briefcases, school satchels, spectacle cases, binocular cases, camera cases, musical instrument cases, gun cases, holsters and similar containers; traveling bags, insulated food or beverage bags, toiletry bags, knapsacks and backpacks, handbags, shopping bags, wallets, purses, map cases, cigarette cases, tobacco pouches, tool bags, sports bags, bottle cases, jewelry boxes, powder cases, cutlery cases and similar containers, of leather or of composition leather, of sheeting of plastics, of textile materials, of vulcanized fiber or of paperboard, or wholly or mainly covered with such materials or with paper).
The symbol "A+" which indicates that these travel goods are eligible for Generalized System of Preferences ("GSP") duty-free entry when they are the product of a Least Developed Beneficiary Developiong Country ("LDBDC") only has been deleted and replaced by the symbol "A" which indicates that these travel goods are eligible for GSP duty-free entry when they are the product of any GSP-eligible country. This is a significant change because, with few exceptions, the LDDBCs are not major producers and shippers of such articles, while the larger list of all GSP-elgible countries includes major producers and exporters such as India and Pakistan.
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Request for Comments Regarding the Administration's Reviews and Report to the President on Trade Agreement Violations and Abuses.
On June 29, 2017, the Office of the United States Trade Representative published in the Federal Register (82 FR 29622) Request for Comments Regarding the Administration's Reviews and Report to the President on Trade Agreement Violations and Abuses.
Executive Order 13796 of April 29, 2017 (82 FR 20819), requires the United States Trade Representative and the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Attorney General, and the Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, to conduct comprehensive performance reviews of all bilateral, plurilateral, and multilateral trade agreements and investment agreements to which the United States is a party and all trade relations with countries governed by the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) with which the United States does not have free trade agreements but with which the United States runs significant trade deficits in goods. The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and the Department of Commerce (DoC) are seeking comments that they will consider as part of these performance reviews and in the preparation of the subsequent report to the President. Written comments are due by 11:59 p.m. (EDT) on July 31, 2017.
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Happy 150th Birthday, Canada!
Canada Day, July 1st, falls on a Saturday this year. Many celebrations will take place on the 1st. However government offices will close on Monday, July 3rd.
Celebrating the Glorious Fourth of July!
The Long Struggle for Independence
by David Trumbull
The American Revolutionary War began April 19, 1775, a date celebrated as a public holiday—Patriots’ Day—in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Patriot's Day the State of Maine. The war became a fight for independence with the July 1776 adoption, by the Americans’ Continental Congress, of the Declaration of Independence.
As you celebrate American freedom this Independence Day weekend—culminating in the free concert and fireworks spectacular at the Charles River Esplanade—remember that independence did not come easily. The war took seven years, with major battles as late as 1781. When, on July 18, 1776, two weeks after the signing, the Declaration of Independence finally completed the long trek on the roads of the day from Philadelphia for the first public reading in Boston, in was not at all inevitable that we Americans should win independence from Great Britain. No one had heard of such a thing as a colony throwing off its mother country. And the idea that untrained volunteer farmer/soldiers would defeat the best professional army and navy in the world was nearly inconceivable.
Coming to aid of the American cause were the Kingdom of France, the Dutch Republic, and the Kingdom of Spain. Provisional Articles of Peace were signed at Paris on November 30, 1782. The final Treaty was signed September 3, 1783. It was ratified by Congress on January 14, 1784, and by the King of Great Britain on April 9, 1784. Ratification documents were exchanged in Paris on May 12, 1784.
The American negotiators, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and John Jay, secured, from one of the largest and most sophisticated world powers, a treaty which contained not only an unconditional acknowledgment of American independence, but also important provisions establishing the territory of the United States as stretching from Canada to Florida and from the Atlantic to the Mississippi. American commercial interests were protected by a provision for Americans to continue to fish the waters of the Atlantic off Canada.
The Revolution began with noble sentiment—We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. It ended with a legal agreement over boundaries and fishing rights. Such is the unchanging course of human events. Noble sentiments are good, even necessary, but they have to be backed up by practical texts. So, having ended the war with the Treaty of Paris in 1783, the next big step for the young nation, in 1787, was to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty—by drafting and adopting our Constitution.
Federal Business Opportunities through June 28, 2017
------------------------------------------------------- Title: Survival Vests Sol. #: W91ZRU-17-T-0008 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Step-In Laser Protection Visors (Aircrew) Sol. #: M67861-17-T-0055 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Insulated Removable Boot Liners for Cold Weather Combat Boot Applications Sol. #: W911QY-17-Bootliners Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Haix Airpower P7 High Winter Waterproof Tactical Boot Haix 206218 with 500 g/m2 insulated Duracom liner Sol. #: DESPS1718 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH, LAMINATED Sol. #: SPMYM4-17-Q-0448 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Lifecycle Equipment Replacement Sol. #: HDTRA117R0043 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Modular Handgun Holster Sol. #: W911QY-17-AMTH Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STREAMER, WARNING Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0332 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STREAMER,WARNING Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0345 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tennessee Army National Guard Recruitng Promotional Items Sol. #: W912L7-17-Q-0401 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TENT Sol. #: SPE1C117T1977 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Darn Tough Socks Sol. #: W919D3018 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH AND STRIPS Sol. #: SPMYM117Q0042 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Canopy replacement Sol. #: 0011003662 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DEVA Reproduction Historical Leather Curtains Sol. #: P17PS01688 Agency: Department of the Interior ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue Sol. #: 7FCI-L3-030084-B Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH AND STRIPS Sol. #: SPMYM117Q0042 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CBP Ballistic Plate Armor Sol. #: HSBP1017R0025 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Guardian Angel Dive Apparel Class 4 Sol. #: FA8629-17-R-5008 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Modular Bomb Suit Sol. #: DJA-17-AHDQ-Q-0055 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Darn Tough Socks Sol. #: W919D3018 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DLA Troop Support Requirements Contract - Commercial Part Number Load Bearing Equipment & Self-Protection Club Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0113 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: VARIOUS CLOTHING Sol. #: SPMYM1-17-Q-0041 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 20' X 60' Canopy Tent (White) Sol. #: VA26217N1230 Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES,IMPACT PROTE Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0337 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CRT Course - Tactical Equipment Sol. #: FY17RR009 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CRT - 7.62 Defeating Ballistic Shields Sol. #: FY17RR0021 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Intent to Sole Source - MTTB Sol. #: M67854-17-Q-1245 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SHOULDER CORD,INFAN Sol. #: SPE1C117T1967 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Modular Bomb Suit Sol. #: DJA-17-AHDQ-Q-0055 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH AND STRIPS Sol. #: SPMYM117Q0042 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Intent to Sole Source - SOV-3 Sol. #: M67854-17-P-1234 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPEAR Family of Tactical Headborne Systems Sol. #: H92222-17-R-0003 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Uniform Rental Sol. #: 0010858961 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 20097091 - CBP Canopy - Nogales POE - SITE VISIT REQUIRED Sol. #: 20097091 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Aircraft Carrier in Australia - Stateroom carpet vendor Sol. #: N6264916C0999 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: YATES FRIES Gloves Sol. #: W919D3013 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Officer, Mess Dress, and Parade Uniforms Sol. #: FA7000-17-R-0009 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: BOOTS,FIREMEN'S Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0282 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 72" ARAMID FABRIC Sol. #: W9098S-17-T-0127 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ACCESS PANELS AND PERSONNEL DOOR Sol. #: N00244-17-Q-0097 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployment Equipment Sol. #: W912LQ-17-Q-3032 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INL/Kyiv Winter Uniforms Sol. #: 865242 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Field Camp Tents Sol. #: WE133F17RQ0218 Agency: Department of Commerce ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue Sol. #: 7FCI-L3-030084-B Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Multipurpose Rubber Gloves Sol. #: 7QSBKA-T9-17-5927-SQA Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Plate Carriers Sol. #: FA4801-17-T-1029 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 15 TAPE HOOK Sol. #: SPMYM217Q1572 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Enhanced-Multi Mission Parachute System (E-MMPS) Sol. #: M67854-17-R-1200 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TM54 Shelter Frame Replacement Sol. #: M6700117Q1255 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployment Equipment Sol. #: W912LQ-17-Q-3032 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Velocity System Vest and helmets Sol. #: PR6110178 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MAPBOARD,TENT Sol. #: Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Arc Flash PPE Sol. #: SB134117RQ0541 Agency: Department of Commerce ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MAROON TASSELS Sol. #: W911SD-17-T-0355 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPEAR Family of Tactical Headborne Systems Sol. #: H92222-17-R-0003 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Shirt, Mens, S/S, Khaki, Athletic and Classic, Navy Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0111 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Winter Mountaineering Boots Sol. #: H92240-17-T-0019 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Plate Carriers Sol. #: FA4801-17-T-1029 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Protective Services Support and Sustainment Kits Sol. #: SAQMMA17R0464 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: S/R Series Flame Retardant Pants and Pants Inseam Sol. #: W91QV1-17-T-0082-1 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Promotional Apparel Items Sol. #: W901UZ17T0002 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: New Mexico Army National Guard Promotional Items Sol. #: W912J3-17-T-0013 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MARKET FOR FSC 8340 - DROPCLOTH, PAINTER'S Sol. #: QSBAAA-D6-17-7024-SQ Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: LAPEL BUTTON,AWARD Sol. #: SPE1C117T1907 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CAP, BASEBALL Sol. #: W9124D-17-T-0073 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Camouflage Net Drape System Technology Sol. #: W15QKN-17-X-0AAE 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.
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
American Apparel and Footwear Association NAFTA Comments
On behalf of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) – the national trade association of the apparel and footwear industries, and their suppliers – I am writing to comment on the “Negotiating Objectives Regarding Modernization of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) With Canada and Mexico.”
By way of background, the AAFA represents about 350 companies accounting for about 1000 brands. AAFA is the trusted public policy and political voice of the apparel and footwear industry, its management and shareholders, its nearly four million U.S. workers, and its contribution of $384 billion in annual U.S. retail sales. Our members design, make, market, and sell clothes, shoes, and fashion accessories in the United States and in nearly every country around the world. Realizing that our industry literally touches every human being on the planet, it is easy to see how our industry stands on the “frontlines of globalization.”
We are strong supporters of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). During the past 24 years, our members have developed extensive supply chains that today account for millions of dollars of U.S. textile, apparel, and footwear exports and imports to NAFTA countries, directly and indirectly supporting millions of jobs in the United States, and benefitting communities and consumers throughout the United States, from Maine to Miami to Monterey.
As we engage in negotiations to modernize the NAFTA, it is our strong advice that the Administration keep four objectives in mind:
- Do No Harm
- Implement Any Changes In A Seamless Manner
- Keep The Agreement Trilateral
- Take Advantage of These Talks To Fix Other Problems
The FULL COMMENTS address all four points in more detail.
Proudly Made in the U.S.A.
When we buy products made in America we help to create or maintain American jobs and we have the assurance that the products we use were made under stringent health, safely, and environmental regulations. To many of us those words, "Made in U.S.A." are an important assurance of quality and commitment to American greatness. That's why it is so important and when a product is labeled "Made in U.S.A." that the claim be true
The FTC takes seriously its mandate to protect consumers from fraudulent "Made in U.S.A." claims. For example, in 2016, the FTC sued a Georgia-based manufacturer of fast-acting glues. the FTC alleged that a significant proportion of the costs of the chemical inputs to the glues was attributable to imported chemicals. The company settled out of court. The settlement, which included a $220,000 financial remedy, required changes in how the company advertises its products. The order prohibited the company from making unqualified Made in U.S.A. claims for any product unless it can show that final assembly or processing -- and all significant processing -- take place in the United States, and that all or virtually all ingredients or components are made and sourced in the U.S.
Complying with the FTC rules can be complex and some manufacturers run afoul of the rules through ignorance, not the intent to deceive. I am pleased to announce that my company, Agathon Associates, has launched a new "Made in U.S.A. Certification" service. Manufacturers desiring to make a Made in U.S.A. claim can have me evaluate their manufacturing process and certify that under the FTC rules they can honestly say "Proudly Made in the U.S.A."
Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber From India and the People's Republic of China: Initiation of Countervailing Duty Investigations
The petitioners allege that imports of the subject merchandise are benefitting from countervailable subsidies and that such imports are causing, or threaten to cause, material injury to the U.S. industry producing the domestic like product. The petitioners contend that the industry's injured condition is illustrated by reduced market share; underselling and price suppression or depression; lost sales and revenues; decreased production, capacity utilization, and U.S. shipments; and declines in financial performance.
The merchandise covered by these investigations is fine denier polyester staple fiber (fine denier PSF), not carded or combed, measuring less than 3.3 decitex (3 denier) in diameter. The scope covers all fine denier PSF, whether coated or uncoated. The following products are excluded from the scope:
(1) PSF equal to or greater than 3.3. decitex (more than 3 denier, inclusive) currently classifiable under Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) subheadings 5503.20.0045 and 5503.20.0065.
(2) Low-melt PSF defined as a bi-component fiber with a polyester core and an outer, polyester sheath that melts at a significantly lower temperature than its inner polyester core currently classified under HTSUS subheading 5503.20.0015.
NCTO CEO to Testify at USTR NAFTA Hearing, Outline U.S. Textile Renegotiation Objectives on June 27
On behalf of the National Council of Textile Organizations, thank you for the opportunity to provide input as USTR develops its objectives for modernizing NAFTA. NCTO represents the full spectrum of the U.S. textile sector, from fibers to yarns to fabrics to finished products, as well as suppliers of machinery, chemicals, and other products and services with a stake in the prosperity of our industry. The entire U.S textile manufacturing chain, from fiber through finished sewn products, employs 565,000 workers nationwide. In 2016, the industry manufactured over $74 billion in output, while exporting more than $26 billion of our production.
We strongly support President Trump’s intention to reopen NAFTA and agree that it can be updated and improved to significantly enhance U.S. textile production, exports, and employment. The NAFTA region enjoys vibrant fiber, yarn, and fabric sectors in addition to cut and sew capabilities. As a result, NCTO supports building on the successes of NAFTA through seeking reasonable improvements to the agreement, but not a cancellation thereof, due to the high level of supply chain integration that exists today.
This partnership is evidenced by robust trade flows. The U.S. textile sector has a demonstrated capability of developing export markets within the NAFTA region. In fact, Mexico and Canada are our two largest export markets, where U.S. textile and apparel exports topped $11 billion in 2016. Furthermore, we maintain a positive trade balance in the sector with our NAFTA partners, achieving a $3.5 billion surplus last year.
NCTO does not foresee a need to reinstate tariffs on NAFTA-qualifying trade. Instead, we recommend a thorough review of the rules of origin to ensure that lucrative tariff benefits are appropriately reserved for manufacturers within the region. NAFTA is based on a yarn-forward rule of origin for textile and apparel trade, a main driver for the integration that has developed among the three countries. Yarn forward was originally devised under NAFTA and is the accepted rule for the industry and the U.S. government in every FTA since because it reserves key benefits for manufacturers within the signatory countries. It is also easier to enforce than a value-added rule.
Despite the logic of the yarn-forward structure, most U.S. FTAs, including NAFTA, also contain damaging loopholes in the textile rules of origin. The most egregious example is tariff preference levels. TPLs allow for products to be shipped duty free despite their components, representing the bulk of the value, being sourced from outside countries. For example, a cotton top, made from Chinese yarn and fabric, can be cut and sewn in Mexico and shipped duty free to the United States. Consequently, TPLs undermine benefits for NAFTA textile manufacturers, transferring them to non-signatories, such as China, who often use predatory trading practices and have made no market-opening concessions themselves.
Altogether, Mexico and Canada may ship nearly 236 million square meter equivalents of apparel, made-ups, and fabric and 12.8 million kilograms of yarn containing third-party inputs annually under the TPLs. It is our strong recommendation that the NAFTA TPL regime be eliminated.
Beyond TPLs, there are other yarn-forward derogations, including assembly-only rules for certain garments. These additional loopholes warrant analysis to determine whether they should be eliminated or adjusted to enhance the benefits for U.S. textile manufacturers under the agreement. We also believe that there should be a review of certain buy-American concessions that were unnecessarily granted to our NAFTA partners.
As a final point, it is our view that there has been a systematic deemphasis of commercial fraud enforcement at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) over the past 30 years. CBP suffers from both a lack of resources and focus particularly considering the layering of new trade agreements and significant increase in imports over this time. As a result, the benefits of NAFTA are being siphoned off by those willing and able to circumvent U.S. trade laws. Our sector is especially prone to fraud, noting that textiles and apparel represent 40 percent of all U.S. duties collected, or $14 billion a year. Clearly, improving NAFTA customs enforcement should be a major focus of this renegotiation.
In conclusion, we fully agree with President Trump that NAFTA can be improved through a set reasonable adjustments to the current text designed to enhance U.S. textile manufacturing and exporting. Further, we believe that by closing unnecessary loopholes in the agreement and placing a greater emphasis on customs enforcement, all parties throughout the NAFTA region will benefit. Doing so will help to build on the vibrant textile and apparel production chain in North America that has evolved under NAFTA.
Thank you for your consideration of our views, and NCTO looks forward to working with the Trump administration as the NAFTA modernization effort progresses.
Monday, June 26, 2017
NAFTA Comments Filed
- Johan Moulin, The Law Office of Lewis E. Leibowitz, on behalf of Flemish Master Weavers
- Thomas Crockett, on behalf of Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America (FDRA)
- Megan Costello, on behalf of Gildan USA Inc.
- Jim Hopkins, on behalf of HAMRICK MILLS, INC.
- Jessica Franken, on behalf of INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry
- Mark Kent, on behalf of Kentwool
- Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, on behalf of Marcraft Apparel Group, Inc.
- Erik Autor, on behalf of National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ)
- Linda Dempsey, on behalf of National Association of Manufacturers
- Reece Langley, on behalf of National Cotton Council
- Gary Adams, on behalf of National Cotton Council
- Sara Beatty, on behalf of National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)
- Kody Bessent, on behalf of Plains Cotton Growers, Inc.
- Melanie Foley, on behalf of Public Citizen
- Marc Fleischaker, on behalf of Rubber and Plastic Footwear Manufacturers Association
- Thompson Lewis, on behalf of Sewell Clothing Company
- Julia Hughes, on behalf of USFIA
- Linden Wicklund, U.S. Industrial Fabrics Institute (USIFI) and Narrow Fabrics Institute (NFI)
- Megan Costello, on behalf of W.L. Gore & Associates Inc.
Friday, June 23, 2017
Notification of Proposed Export Production Activity
Gildan Yarns, LLC (Cotton, Cotton/Polyester Yarns)
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board by the Charlotte Regional Partnership, Inc., grantee of FTZ 57, requesting export-only production authority on behalf of Gildan Yarns, LLC (Gildan), located in Salisbury, North Carolina. The application conforming to the requirements of the regulations of the FTZ Board (15 CFR 400.23) was docketed on June 16, 2017.
The Gildan facility (400 employees, 104 acres) is located within Site 19 of FTZ 57. The facility is used to produce spun cotton and cotton/polyester yarns for export. Production under FTZ procedures could exempt Gildan from customs duty payments on the foreign component used in export production. The sole foreign-origin material (representing 10% of the value of the finished product) to be used in the export production is polyester staple fiber (duty rate 4.3%). Customs duties also could possibly be deferred or reduced on foreign-status production equipment. The request indicates that the savings from FTZ procedures would help improve the plant's international competitiveness.
In accordance with the FTZ Board's regulations, Elizabeth Whiteman of the FTZ Staff is designated examiner to evaluate and analyze the facts and information presented in the application and case record and to report findings and recommendations to the FTZ Board.
Public comment is invited from interested parties. Submissions shall be addressed to the FTZ Board's Executive Secretary at the address below. The closing period for their receipt is August 22, 2017. Rebuttal comments in response to material submitted during the foregoing period may be submitted during the subsequent 15-day period to September 6, 2017.
This is Gildan's second attempt at seeking authorization for FTZ procedures for yarn production for export using imported polyester staple fiber. In 2014 Gildan filed a "short form" Notification of Proposed Export Production Activity (Docket B-86-2014). The American Fiber Manufacturers Association opposed and the application was denied.
Thursday, June 22, 2017
The FTC Seeks Comments on Proposal to Eliminate Obsolete Provisions in Textile Labeling Rule
Section 303.19 of the Textile Rules allows the owners of registered word trademarks who use these trademarks as house marks to disclose such trademarks on labels in lieu of their business names. However, before doing so, the company must file a copy of the trademark's USPTO registration with the Commission. This requirement was imposed in 1959 presumably to obviate the need for the Commission to obtain from the USPTO paper copies of trademark registrations. However, the registered marks can be found by searching online or at the USPTO's Website (www.uspto.gov). The Commission, therefore, proposes to eliminate the requirement for businesses to file paper copies of the registration with the Commission because it appears unnecessary and could in some cases impose unnecessary costs on businesses.
For the Commission to consider your comment, they must receive it on or before July 31, 2017.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
CALL FOR PAPERS Deadline: June 30, 2017
Federal Business Opportunities through June 21, 2017
------------------------------------------------------- Title: Custom Sports Jerseys Sol. #: 11002910 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Service: Uniform rentals Great Lakes/Detroit Sol. #: VA78617Q0447 Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tactical Uniforms and Accessories Sol. #: CGCRFQ01 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Promotional Apparel Items Sol. #: W901UZ17T0002 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CAP, BASEBALL Sol. #: W9124D-17-T-0073 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Plate Carriers Sol. #: FA4801-17-T-1029 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: OPTION - Fire Fighter Personal Protective Equipment Sol. #: W91QV1-17-R-0048 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STAND,FLAGSTAFF Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0083 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue Sol. #: 7FCI-L3-030084-B Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Fall Protection Harnesses Sol. #: FA8224-17-R-0074 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tarpaulin 20' x 20' Sol. #: 00-841-6455 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SUPPLY & DELIVERY OF PPE UNIFORM FOR FACILITY STAFF Sol. #: SSA40017Q0004 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 1/3 ABCT Retention Items Sol. #: W9124M-07-Q-WG08 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CNT Yarn Sol. #: N00421-17-Q-0209 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TENT,TEMPER,AIR SUPPOR Sol. #: SPE1C117T1872 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Zetaliners Sol. #: F3V1A17094AW02 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Apron, Laboratory Sol. #: SPRDL117Q0341 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DECORATION SET,INDI Sol. #: SPE1C117T1851 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: WEBBING,TEXTILE Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0341 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CNT Yarn Sol. #: N00421-17-Q-0209 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Ultra Lightweight Camouflage Net System (ULCANS) Sol. #: W911QY-17-R-0023 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue Sol. #: 7FCI-L3-030084-B Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Mobile Shoe-Truck and Non-Conductive Protective Footwear Sol. #: W52P1J-17-T-3049 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Furnish and Launder Arc-Flash Fire Resistant Personal Protective Clothing Sol. #: W912DR-17-S-0021 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Lining Helmet Shock Absorbing HGU-55/P Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0110 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Commercial Item, Slide Fasteners/Zippers for APFU Jackets Sol. #: CT2227-17 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: BAG,DIVER Sol. #: SPE1C117T1847 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Ultra Lightweight Camouflage Net System (ULCANS) Sol. #: W911QY-17-R-0023 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SHOE, ATHLETIC Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-ATHL Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DEVA Reproduction Historical Leather Curtains Sol. #: P17PS01688 Agency: Department of the Interior ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Belleville 330ST (Steel Toe) Brown Leather Flight Boots Sol. #: N6883617Q0129 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSULATION Sol. #: SPMYM4-17-Q-0395 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Plate Carriers Sol. #: FA4801-17-T-1029 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Stakes, Plastic, MGPTS, NSN 8340-01-478-0136 Sol. #: 67743908 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Promotional and Recruiting Materials Sol. #: H92257-17-Q-0103 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Spall Cover Repair Patch Sol. #: M67854-17-Q-1215 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: EOD 10 Bomb Suits Sol. #: F5N3C66344AW01 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployment Gear Sol. #: FA4611-17-Q-0058 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Ballistic Helmets (High-Cut) Sol. #: FA461317R1007 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES,PIGSKIN Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0256 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SOCKS,FLYER'S,ANTI- Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0354 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Maritime Security Helmets Sol. #: N61331-17-R-0002 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Cut and sew manufacturing of uniform male trousers and female slacks. Sol. #: N0018917QG043 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Entrance Wall Assembly, Tan, MCPS Sol. #: 013375299 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Marketing Items with Logo Sol. #: W912LQ17T0015A Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: End Section Liner, Temper Sol. #: 8310-01-392-0921 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Vestibule Frame, Temper Sol. #: 8340-01-186-3010 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSIGNIA,SERVICE HA Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0359 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Window Wall, Green, Modular Command Post Sol. #: 8340-01-331-0152-1 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Vestibule w/door Tan NSN:8340-01-198-7621, Vestibule Floor Green NSN 8340-01-186-3027, Vestibule Container Green NSN 8340-01-186-3029, and Pin Container Green NSN: 8340-01-186-3030 Sol. #: VestibuleDoorContainerFloorPin Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Arc Flash PPE Sol. #: SB134117RQ0541 Agency: Department of Commerce ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Non-skid Safety Shoes Sol. #: N6809317Q0078 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 1/3 ABCT Retention Items Sol. #: W9124M-07-Q-WG08 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue Sol. #: 7FCI-L3-030084-B Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Cut and Sew Inherently Fire Resistant Uniform Shirts Sol. #: N0018917QG042 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 72" ARAMID FABRIC Sol. #: W9098S-17-T-0127 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Jacket, Cold Weather (Shipboard) Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0107 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FLAG,ORGANIZATIONAL Sol. #: SPE1C117T1814 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FLAG,NATIONAL Sol. #: SPE1C117T1809 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSIGNIA,GRADE,ENLISTE Sol. #: SPE1C117T1807 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CAP, BASEBALL Sol. #: W9124D-17-T-0073 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: American Stick Flags Sol. #: HSSCCG-17-Q-00296 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TNARNG Recruiting Promotional Items-SOURCES SOUGHT Sol. #: W912L7-17-Q-0400 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: HELMET,COMBAT VEHIC Sol. #: SPE7L317TL456 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Maritime Assault Suits Sol. #: HHSP233201700048P Agency: Department of Health and Human Services ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Inflatable Canopy Shelters Sol. #: W912JB17T2027 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Cold Weather Gear Sol. #: FA4528-17-Q-4026 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES, ELECTRICAL WORKER Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0355B Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Vital Torso Protection - Full Rate Production Sol. #: W91CRB-16-R-0010 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES,ELECTRICAL W Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0355 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Use in Jute Materials Sol. #: W911QY-17-JUTE Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH,COATED Sol. #: SPE1C117T1463 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.
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
Request for Comments and Notice of Public Hearing Concerning an Out-of-Cycle Review of Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda Eligibility for Benefits Under the African Growth and Opportunity Act
New center for development of high-tech fibers and fabrics opens headquarters, unveils two products ready for commercialization.
Monday, June 19, 2017
More NAFTA Comments Posted
- Thomas Crockett, on behalf of Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America (FDRA)
- Linda Dempsey, on behalf of National Association of Manufacturers
- Melanie Foley, on behalf of Public Citizen
Hope II 2017 Annual Report
You may read the full report HERE.
Imports of certain Haitian manufactured textile and apparel goods are eligible for duty-free treatment under the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act ("CBTPA").
Additional benefits by way of special rules for Haiti have been added through the--
- Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act of 2006 ("HOPE") Public Law 109-432,
- Food Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 ("HOPE II") Public Law 110-246, and
- Haiti Economic Lift Program of 2010 ("HELP") Public Law 111-171.
Clients of Agathon Associates and subscribers to Agathon Associates' Trade Advisor Service can learn more about U.S. apparel trade preferences for Haiti at www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/haiti/trade.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.
Sunday, June 18, 2017
REMINDER: MTB Comments Due Wednesday
Another Fiberglass FTZ Filing
Today the FTZ Board published notice that PGTEX USA has filed for additional FTZ production authority. This latest application could exempt PGTEX from customs duty payments on the glass fiber rovings used in export production. The applicant indicates that the foreign-sourced glass fiber rovings (HTSUS 7019.12, duty rate 4.8%) will be admitted to the FTZ in privileged foreign status (19 CFR 146.41), which would require payment of the original duty rate on the glass fiber rovings incorporated into a finished product on which entry from the FTZ was subsequently made. Customs duties also could possibly be deferred or reduced on foreign-status production equipment. This continues a trend we have seen of FTZ applicants omitting controversial textile inputs which are likely to generate opposition from the domestic textile industry.
Saturday, June 17, 2017
Military Clothing Contracts Awarded
Crown Clothing Co., Vineland, New Jersey, has been awarded a maximum $8,044,027 modification (P00107) exercising the fourth one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPM1C1-13-D-1059) with four one-year option periods for various coats. This is a fixed-price contract. Location of performance is New Jersey, with a June 23, 2018, performance completion date. Using military service is Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2017 through 2018 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Friday, June 16, 2017
Request for Information on Potentially Reducing Regulatory Burdens Without Harming Consumers
Little Giraffe Recalls Children’s Robes Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard
Recall Details
Description: This recall involves Luxe Satin children’s long-sleeve robes. The robes are 43 percent acetate with 57 percent rayon, satin outer shell and a 100 percent polyester microfiber inside. The robes were sold in pink, blue and cream in sizes 1 (XS-S/4-6 years), 2 (MD-LG/6-8 years) and 3 (XL-XXL/8-10 years). The robes have two belt loops on each side and an unattached belt. Lot number “21706-DFR001” and “Not Intended for Sleepwear” are printed on the robes inside seam label.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported
Sold at: Children’s specialty stores nationwide and online at www.littlegiraffe.com from November 2012 through March 2017 for about $100.
Importer(s): Little Giraffe, of Van Nuys, Calif.
Distributor(s): Little Giraffe, of Van Nuys, Calif.
Manufactured In: China
Thursday, June 15, 2017
More NAFTA Comments
- Erik Autor, on behalf of National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ)
- Megan Costello, on behalf of W.L. Gore & Associates Inc.
- Sara Beatty, on behalf of National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)
- Julia Hughes, on behalf of USFIA
- Johan Moulin, The Law Office of Lewis E. Leibowitz, on behalf of Flemish Master Weavers
- Linden Wicklund, U.S. Industrial Fabrics Institute (USIFI) and Narrow Fabrics Institute (NFI)
Another FTZ Operation Approved with Textiles Excluded
A Foreign-Trade Zone approval today continues a trend Agathon Associates reported June 1st of companies opting to omit textile inputs from their FTZ applications.
On October 18, 2016, CGT U.S., Ltd., submitted a notification of proposed production activity to the Foreign-Trade Zone Board for its facility in New Braunfels, Texas, where the company manufactures Polyvinyl Chloride coated upholstery fabric cover stock. Today the FTZ Board announced approval of the appliocation subject to the restriction requiring that foreign-status polyester and polycotton knit fabrics be admitted to the subzone in privileged foreign-status, thus precluding relief from inverted tariff on the textile components.
Production under FTZ procedures will exempt CGT from customs duty payments on the foreign-status components used in export production. On its domestic sales, CGT will be able to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to the PVC coated upholstery fabric cover stock (duty free) for the foreign-status inputs noted below. Customs duties also could possibly be deferred or reduced on foreign-status production equipment.
The components and materials sourced from abroad include: Compound stabilizer for plastics; antimony trioxide (low-tint); flat release paper; polyester knit fabric; polycotton knit fabric; polyurethane top finish dull; polyurethane top finish gloss; polyvinyl chloride dispersion resin; carbodimide crosslinker; aqueous (water base) polyurethane top finish; polyurethane top finish; aqueous (water base) silicone modifier; aqueous (water base) silicone hand modifier; polyurethane; polyisocyanate crosslinker; defoamer; polyfunctional aziridine crosslinker; wetting agent top coat; and, stabilizers (duty rates range from duty free to 10%).
The request indicated that CGT would admit foreign-status polyester and polycotton knit fabrics (HTSUS 6006.31.00) in privileged foreign status (19 CFR 146.43), thereby precluding inverted tariff benefits on these inputs.
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
New England Golf Outing & Banquet ~ Friday June 23, 2017
Golf Outing:
Cranston Country Club
Dinner Banquet:
Venus de Milo Restaurant
Be an individual or corporate sponsor
<$100 FRIEND OF NE AATCC
$100-499 GOLD
$500-799 PLATINUM – One (1) complimentary dinner ticket
$800+ PREMIER – Two (2) complimentary dinner tickets
To see event details and registration form CLICK HERE.
USTR Extends Public Comment Period For NAFTA Renegotiation Objectives
As of midnight last night, over 12,000 comments had been received, but just a bit over 600 had been processed and made available on the government website. Among the comments available for viewing are:
- Jim Hopkins, on behalf of HAMRICK MILLS, INC.
- Augustine Tantillo, on behalf of the NATIONAL COUNCIL OF TEXTILE ORGANIZATIONS
- Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg on behalf of MARCRAFT APPAREL GROUP, INC.
- Thompson Lewis, on behalf of Sewell Clothing Company
- Jessica Franken, on behalf of INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry
New Date for the October 2017 Customs Broker's License Examination
Federal Business Opportunities through June 14, 2017
------------------------------------------------------- Title: FLAG,IDENTIFICATION Sol. #: SPE1C117T1800 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Welders Glove Sol. #: SPE1C117R0103 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Field Shower Portable Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-Q-0353 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tactical Uniforms and Accessories Sol. #: CGCRFQ01 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVE SHELLS,ELECTR Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0255 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Shield, Flight Deck, Front & Back Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0109 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: LINER, HELMET Sol. #: SPE1C117T1792 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STRAP,WEBBING Sol. #: Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CARRIER,OC SPRAY Sol. #: SPE1C117T1559 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: USCIS Customized American Stick Flags Sol. #: HSSCCG-17-Q-00302 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SHROUD,FACE AND NEC Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0273 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: WH&B APPAREL CONTRACT 2017 Sol. #: L17PS00639 Agency: Department of the Interior ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TEMPER TYPE XLI, AIR S Sol. #: SPE1C117T1778 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Task Force 1-28 IN Distinctive Unit Insignia Sol. #: 128AB0009 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Cloth Polyester Twill Sol. #: W911SD-17-T-0071 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Zetaliners Sol. #: F3V1A17094AW02 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Body Armor and Equipment Sol. #: PR6131318 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INL/Kyiv Winter Uniforms Sol. #: 865242 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CBP Ballistic Plate Armor Sol. #: HSBP1017R0025 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: HEADER,TENT FRAME Sol. #: Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FR PROGRAM FOR UNIFORM RENTAL Sol. #: A17PS00762 Agency: Department of the Interior ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tyvek Converalls Sol. #: RFQ-2017-032 Agency: United States Senate ------------------------------------------------------- Title: REDACTED J&A Sol. #: Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tactical Clothing and Equipment Sol. #: PAN408-17-P-0000-005826 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Promotional and Recruiting Materials Sol. #: H92257-17-Q-0103 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: WH&B APPAREL CONTRACT 2017 Sol. #: L17PS00639 Agency: Department of the Interior ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Phone Talker Helmet Sol. #: N68836-17-Q0122 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MC Sweatshirt/Sweatpants, CG Sweatshirt/Sweatpants Sol. #: SPE1C117R0098 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Athletic Shoes Sol. #: W91QVN17R0142 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE MANUFACTURE OF MAINTENANCE PLATFORM CANOPIES Sol. #: N0016417RGP29 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Naval Security Forces Vests IDIQ Sol. #: N61331-17-R-0007 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Butyl Glove and TAP Glove Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0099 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Body Armor and Equipment Sol. #: PR6131318 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FLAG,IDENTIFICATION Sol. #: SPE1C117T1526 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Hot Weather Boots Sol. #: W911QY-2017-PMCIE1 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: OPTION - Fire Fighter Personal Protective Equipment Sol. #: W91QV1-17-R-0048 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: HOMELESS / DISASTER BLANKET Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0095 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Jacket, Cold Weather (Shipboard) Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-0107 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Army OCP Uniforms Sol. #: W912JM-17-T-0066 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Cotton Knit Velour Sol. #: W911SD-17-T-0072 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Guardian Angel Dive Apparel Class 4 Sol. #: FA8629-17-R-5008 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Design, Build and deliver 7 Airbeam Shelters Sol. #: WX02398Y2017T Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Plastic Sheeting Sol. #: SPMYM3-17-Q-1057 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MC Sweatshirt/Sweatpants, CG Sweatshirt/Sweatpants Sol. #: SPE1C117R0098 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: New Mexico Army National Guard Promotional Items Sol. #: W912J3-17-T-0013 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Baker Batshield NIJ Level IIIA Foldable Ballistic Shield Sol. #: POLKDESPOLICELJP0016 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Naval Security Forces Vests IDIQ Sol. #: N61331-17-R-0007 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES,ELECTRICAL W Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0352 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STRAP,FIELD PACK Sol. #: SPE1C117R00110004 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Velocity System Vest and helmets Sol. #: PR6110178 Agency: Department of State ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GLOVES,ELECTRICAL W Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0351 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ICE Law Enforcement Badges/Credentials Sol. #: HSCEDM-17-P-00070 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: KIT,BLADDER,AIRCRAF Sol. #: SPE1C117Q0335 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Task Force 1-28 IN Distinctive Unit Insignia Sol. #: 128AB0009 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Firefighter Bunker Gear Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico Sol. #: W912C3-17-Q-019A Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: IOTV Generation III Conversion Kits & Components Sol. #: SPE1C1-17-R-TBD2 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: HELMET,COMBAT VEHIC Sol. #: SPE7L317TF092 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.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
USITC Releases Eighth Annual Report on Textile and Apparel Imports from China
On June 12, 2017, the United States International Trade Commission ("USITC") released USITC Publication 4698, Investigation No. 332-501 Textile and Apparel Imports from China: Statistical Reports Annual Compilation 2016
Improved Planning Needed to Strengthen Trade Enforcement
Over the past 5 fiscal years, CBP generally has not met the minimum staffing levels set by Congress for four of nine positions that perform customs revenue functions, and it generally has not met the optimal staffing level targets identified by the agency for these positions. Staffing shortfalls can impact CBP's ability to enforce trade effectively, for example, by leading to reduced compliance audits and decreased cargo inspections, according to CBP officials. CBP cited several challenges to filling staffing gaps, including that hiring for trade positions is not an agency-wide priority. Contrary to leading practices in human capital management, CBP has not articulated how it plans to reach its staffing targets for trade positions over the long term, generally conducting its hiring on an ad hoc basis.
To strengthen its trade enforcement efforts, the GAO recommended that CBP should (1) include performance targets in its plans covering high-risk issue areas, and (2) develop a long-term hiring plan specific to trade positions that articulates how it will reach its staffing targets. CBP concurred with both recommendations.
New Comment Period in Coleman FTZ Proceeding
On June 13, 2017, the Foreign Trade Zone Board published in the Federal Register (82 FR 27039) Foreign-Trade Zone 119--Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, Application for Additional Production Authority; The Coleman Company, Inc., Subzone 119I, Invitation for Public Comment on Preliminary Recommendation. Public comment is invited through July 31, 2017. Rebuttal comments in response to material submitted during the foregoing period may be submitted during the subsequent 15-day period, until August 15, 2017.
The Coleman application, which has been under consideration since March, 2014, has been one of the most controversial of FTZ proceedings. Agathon Associates has prepared a detailed history of the proceedings which is available to clients and subscribers to the Agathon Associates' Trade Advisor service. 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.
CPSC Hearing on Agenda and Priorities for Fiscal Year 2018
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission ("CPSC") will conduct a public hearing to receive views from all interested parties about the Commission's agenda and priorities for fiscal year 2018, which begins on October 1, 2017, and for fiscal year 2019, which begins on October 1, 2018. We invite members of the public to participate. Written comments and oral presentations concerning the Commission's agenda and priorities for fiscal years 2018 and 2019 will become part of the public record.
The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. on July 26, 2017, and will conclude the same day. Requests to make oral presentations and the written text of any oral presentations must be received by the Office of the Secretary not later than 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on July 12, 2017. The Commission will accept written comments as well. These also must be received by the Office of the Secretary not later than 5 p.m. EDT on July 12, 2017.
CPSC Workshop on Recall Effectiveness
The workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 25, 2017. Individuals interested in attending the workshop should register by July 3, 2017. Suggestions for additional topics for the workshop should be submitted by June 23, 2017.
The workshop will be held in the Hearing Room at CPSC's headquarters at: 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814. There is no charge to attend the workshop. Persons interested in attending the workshop should register online at: https://cpsc.gov/content/cpsc-workshop-on-recall-effectiveness.
Manufacturer in Puerto Rico Awarded Navy Uniform Contract
Friday, June 9, 2017
USITC Publishes Preliminary MTP List
Thursday, June 8, 2017
NAFTA Comments Due Monday
Merchandise Produced by Convict, Forced, or Indentured Labor
Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1307) prohibits the importation of merchandise that has been mined, produced, or manufactured, wholly or in part, in any foreign country by forced labor, including prison labor and forced child labor. Despite this general prohibition, the Tariff Act of 1930 included a "consumptive demand" clause, which allowed for the importation of forced-labor-derived goods if the goods were not produced in such quantities in the United States as to meet the "consumptive demands" of the United States.
On February 24, 2016, the President signed into law the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (TFTEA) (Pub. L. 114-125). Section 910 of TFTEA repeals the "consumptive demand" clause in section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930, thereby eliminating the consumptive demand exception to the prohibition on importation of goods made with convict labor, forced labor, or indentured servitude. This amendment went into effect on March 10, 2016.
Today U.S. Customs and Border Protection amended Customs regulations to reflect section 910 of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 by removing the "consumptive demand" clause from the regulations concerning the prohibition on the importation of merchandise produced by convict, forced, or indentured labor. It also updates the regulations to reflect the correct name of the agency and includes a minor procedural change with regard to the filing of proof of admissibility.
CBP to Require ACE for Electronic Drawback and Duty Deferral
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
CBP Launches “The Truth Behind Counterfeits” Campaign to Inform Travelers of the Dangers of Counterfeit Goods
The campaign will run through July at six of the busiest U.S. international airports: Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport; Chicago O’Hare International Airport; Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport; Los Angeles International Airport; New York John F. Kennedy International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport.
Government Contracts Awarded
Black Wool Parka (Solicitation Number: W911sd-17-T-0251), $43,338.40 contract awarded to Nsignia Manufacturing, 112W 34th St, 17 Floor, New York, New York 10120.
Fabric Liner (Solicitation Number: 0040330961), $9,732.28 contract awarded to The Akana Group, 118 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48104.
Proposed Revocation Of One Ruling Letter And Proposed Modification Of Two Ruling Letters And Revocation Of Treatment Relating To The Tariff Classification Of Various Foot Sleeves
Comments must be received on or before July 7, 2017.
Proposed Modification Of A Ruling Letter Related To The Classification Of Certain Polyester Yarn
Comments must be received on or before July 7, 2017.
Polypropylene Yarn FTZ Application Filed
An application has been submitted to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board by the City of Waterville, Maine, grantee of FTZ 186, requesting production authority on behalf of Flemish Master Weavers (FMW), located within Subzone 186A in Sanford, Maine.
The FMW facility (127 employees, 4.08 acres) is used for the production of machine-made woven area rugs. FMW already has restricted FTZ authority to produce area rugs using polypropylene and polyester yarns in privileged foreign status (19 CFR 146.41), which precludes inverted tariff benefits on those inputs (see 81 FR 51850, August 5, 2016).
The pending application requests authority for FMW to use imported continuous filament polypropylene yarn in non-privileged foreign status (19 CFR 146.42). If the application were approved, on its domestic sales, FMW would be able to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to machine-made woven area rugs (duty free) for the imported continuous filament polypropylene yarn (otherwise dutiable at 8%). Customs duties also could possibly be deferred or reduced on foreign-status production equipment. The request indicates that the savings from FTZ procedures would help improve the plant's international competitiveness.
Public comment is invited from interested parties. Submissions shall be addressed to the FTZ Board's Executive Secretary at the address below. The closing period for their receipt is August 7, 2017. Rebuttal comments in response to material submitted during the foregoing period may be submitted during the subsequent 15-day period to August 21, 2017.