However, the Government Accountability Office found problems in how CBP checks these claims. For example, CBP's new electronic records system doesn't include enough details on exports. CBP must manually check claims but currently isn't doing so. It could be issuing refunds it shouldn't issue.
Read the report HERE.
USTR Section 301-China webpage.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Section 301 HTSUS Reference Guide.
"Counterfeit goods not only threaten our national security by endangering the health and safety of consumers, they also can wreak havoc on our economy and fund criminal elements involved in a range of other illegal activities," said CBP Director of Field Operations for Boston Michael Denning at the event.
Handbags, watches and clothing are the items most identified as frequently-counterfeited items. The event emphasized that intellectual property thieves will counterfeit any product that can be sold or marketed. This means items like counterfeit drugs, medical equipment, aircraft and automobile parts, computer hardware, military components, and electrical safety devices.
In April 2018, CBP intercepted an international parcel containing six counterfeit Toyota airbags, shipped by Ali Mufrej. HSI agents on the Seattle Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) initiated an investigation into Mufrej and determined he was associated with a large volume of shipments of counterfeit vehicle airbags and auto parts being sold online.
On Dec. 12, 2018, HSI BEST-Seattle arrested Mufrej for multiple counts of trafficking counterfeit goods. HSI special agents also executed a search warrant at Mufrej's residence in Des Moines. During the execution of the search warrant, agents located and seized counterfeit airbags, airbag inflators, airbag covers, automaker emblems, electronic devices and miscellaneous documents relating to the shipment and sale of counterfeit airbags. The counterfeit airbags were found to pose significant risk to consumers.
On Dec. 17, 2019, Ali Mufrej was sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine. He has previously pled guilty to violations of criminal copyright infringement-accessory after the fact.
For more background read Agathon Associations May 1, 2019 blog.
Thanks to two brand new scholarships, AATCC Foundation Inc. will provide more funding than ever to students in textile and related fields. For the 2020-2021 academic year, the AATCC Foundation will award more than 35 scholarships and fellowships, worth nearly $150,000. Students can find and apply for scholarships through one easy online application.
The two newest scholarships in the AATCC Foundation portfolio are the NCTO Paul T. O’Day Scholarship and the Percy W. Woodruff Jr Textile Manufacturing Scholarship.
NCTO Paul T. O’Day Scholarship
NCTO President & CEO Kimberly Glas says, “The Paul O’Day Memorial Scholarship was created to honor a man whose influence and legacy in the fiber sector of the textile industry was revered as he served as President of the American Fiber Manufacturers Association (AFMA) for more than three decades.”
Since the 2018 merger of AFMA with the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), the scholarship is awarded to children of employees at NCTO Fiber Council member companies. Glas says, “The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) is pleased to partner with the AATCC Foundation to promote this scholarship and select recipients with outstanding academic achievements who desire to choose career paths to support the American fiber industry.”
The O’Day Scholarship provides $5,000 per year to an undergraduate student, renewable for up to four years.
Percy W. Woodruff Jr Textile Manufacturing Scholarship
The Woodruff Textile Manufacturing Scholarship is named for Percy W. Woodruff, Jr., who was a non-traditional university student. Despite working several jobs, the only way Woodruff could afford to complete his college education was through the GI Bill as a WWII veteran and income from his wife’s teaching career. After graduating from college with a degree in Textiles, he spent his career in the US textile industry, retiring from Burlington Industries. The Woodruff Scholarship is awarded to other “non-traditional students,” particularly those in the Clemson University Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE). Non-traditional students may be anyone disadvantaged by starting college late or in the wrong major, or any other circumstance.
Recipients of the Woodruff Scholarship receive $2,500. All Foundation scholars are also eligible for free registration and reimbursement of travel funds to attend the AATCC International Conference.
The conference will focus on region-specific sessions, market access, fair trade, disaster preparedness and recovery, logistics, and trade financing resources as well as prearranged one-on-one consultations with US&FCS Commercial Officers and/or Department of State Economic/Commercial Officers with expertise in markets throughout the region. The mission is open to U.S. companies from a cross-section of industries with growth potential in the Caribbean region, but is focused on U.S. companies in best prospects sectors such as
For more information, see the December 16, 2019, Federal Register Notice (84 FR 68393).
For more information and to register CLICK HERE.
Description: This recall involves Crewcuts boys’ denim pants sold in sizes 2 and 3 and only includes pants that were made in Pakistan. Pants with style number J8406 and season FA 19 are included in the recall. A care label sewn into the side seam lists the style number and season. A label sewn into the waistband of the garment lists the size and country of origin and “Crewcuts.” UPC codes 099105125419 and 099105125420 are listed on the price tag attached to the pants.
Hazard: Small stones can be present in the pockets or waistband of the pants from the stone washing manufacturing process, posing aspiration or choking hazards to young children.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled pants away from children and remove the stones from pockets or internal waistband opening to eliminate the hazard
Incidents/Injuries: J. Crew received one report of stones found in the waistband extension of the pants. No injuries have been reported.
Sold At: J. Crew and Crewcuts stores nationwide and online at jcrew.com from July 2019 through October 2019 for about $50.
Importer(s): J. Crew Group Inc., of New York, N.Y.
Manufactured In: Pakistan
Recall number: 20-040
More information and photos HERE.
Since 1982, nearly every Congress has passed legislation to temporarily reduce or suspend tariffs on certain imported products and make technical corrections to U.S. tariff laws. Although the official title of the bill varies from year to year, it is usually referred to simply as the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill ("MTB") The duty suspensions and reductions are designed to boost the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers by lowering the cost of imported inputs without harming domestic firms that produce competing products. In addition, in the case of finished goods, MTBs similarly reduce costs for consumers where there is no domestic production and thus no impact on domestic firms. Overall, the tariff relief contained in MTBs is designed both to be broadly available to any entity that imports and pays duties pursuant to the specified tariff heading and to benefit downstream producers, purchasers, and consumers.
To be included in the MTB, a tariff modification (e.g. duty suspension or reduction) must:
In determining whether an MTB meets these criteria, each bill undergoes a thorough vetting process by the Committee; the independent U.S. International Trade Commission ("ITC") and the Administration, including the Department of Commerce ("DOC") and U.S. Customs and Border Protection ("CBP"); and is scored by the Congressional Budget Office ("CBO").
Beginning the week prior to Halloween, more than two-dozen HSI New Orleans special agents began conducting surveillance of area business locations ultimately identifying numerous vendors engaged in the illegal sale of counterfeit goods, with an emphasis on Halloween-related items such as cosmetic contact lenses and makeup that pose a potential public safety threat due to possible bacterial and heavy metals contamination.
During the second phase of the operation after Halloween, HSI New Orleans shifted focus to the holiday gift-buying season and seized cosmetics, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, cell phones and cell phone accessories, DVDs, music CDs, sports memorabilia, designer clothing, shoes, sunglasses, handbags and wallets. Read more HERE.
According to the Ukraine State Bureau of Investigations, five defense officials are under investigation involving the purchase of substandard "bulletproof" vests. It is charged that the Ukrainian Defense Directorate of 20,000 knowingly purchased defected "bulletproof" ballistic vests (as well as thousands of poor quality military shelters). Seventy-nine of 100 vests randomly tested failed the requirement specification.
The BeaverLake6 Report appears to be the only technical textile website reporting on the scandal.
On November 14, 2019, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced affirmative final determinations in the antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations of imports of polyester textured yarn from China and India, finding exporters from these nations have dumped yarn in the United States at margins ranging from 76.07 to 77.15 percent and 17.62 to 47.51 percent, respectively. Commerce also determined that exporters from China and India received countervailable subsidies at rates ranging from 32.18 to 473.09 percent and 4.29 to 21.83 percent, respectively.
In 2018, imports of polyester textured yarn from China and India were valued at an estimated $45.5 million and $21.6 million, respectively.
The petitioners are Unifi Manufacturing, Inc. (Greensboro, NC) and Nan Ya Plastics Corp. America (Lake City, SC).
The strict enforcement of U.S. trade law is a primary focus of the Trump Administration. Since the beginning of the current Administration, Commerce has initiated 187 new antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 240 percent increase from the comparable period in the previous administration.
Antidumping and countervailing duty laws provide American businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of the unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 498 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) is currently scheduled to make its final injury determinations on or about December 30, 2019. If the ITC makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue AD and CVD orders. If the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no orders will be issued.
Click HERE for a fact sheet on the decisions.
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade law and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international rules and is based on factual evidence provided on the record.
Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to antidumping duties. Companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments, such as grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks, or production inputs, are subject to countervailing duties aimed at directly countering those subsidies.
On November 12, 2019, The Brickle Group announced that more than $84 million in Defense Logistics Agency contracts were awarded to its subsidiary Northwest Woolen Mills over the last eight months. The Brickle Group, a third-generation, leading manufacturer based out of Woonsocket, R.I., has been producing textiles for the last 83 years, including the production of the U.S. Military blanket.
The Brickle Group credits the competitiveness of its proposals to the state’s business-friendly ecosystem and commitment to investing in Rhode Island’s past to drive the future. These awards would not be possible without the tireless leadership and support of Governor Raimondo, Senator Jack Reed, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressman David Cicilline and Congressman Jim Langevin, on behalf of Rhode Island’s manufacturing and defense industries.
The company has been a key participant in Real Jobs RI, Governor Raimondo’s cutting-edge workforce development platform, and the RI Innovation Network, sponsored by Senator Whitehouse, which has provided the vehicle for the 70 textiles companies in RI to connect and utilize each other to make the Brickle Group a one-stop shop, supply chain solution.
“Manufacturing is in Rhode Island’s DNA,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “That’s why we’re investing in platforms like Real Jobs Rhode Island that support our workers and homegrown companies like The Brickle Group. I want to congratulate the Brickle Group and their partners on successfully winning these federal contracts. I’m thrilled that they are thriving and growing here in Woonsocket.”
“I am always pleased to help Rhode Island businesses compete for defense contracts and thrilled when they win. These federal contracts mean more jobs here in Woonsocket. The Brickle Group and its employees contribute to a number of quality products for our service members. I salute the Brickle Group for ensuring our service members get the high-quality products they need for operations, and for producing them right here in Rhode Island,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee.
“With this significant contract, The Brickle Group continues Rhode Island’s tradition of making world-class products for the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces,” said Senator Whitehouse. “It’s gratifying to see our long efforts to convene the local textile industry and to support local manufacturing jobs bear fruit.”
“Rhode Island is at its strongest when hardworking folks have good-paying manufacturing jobs like those at Northwest Woolen Mills,” said Congressman Cicilline. “I commend the Brickle Group, RITIN, and Polaris MEP for their commitment to strengthening our state’s manufacturing industry and for making this award possible. I look forward to seeing the tremendous return on this important federal investment.”
“Manufacturers across Rhode Island play an important role in supporting our military and bolstering our national defense,” said Congressman Langevin, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. “I am pleased the Defense Logistics Agency has awarded these contracts, and I will continue to fight for federal funding to support Rhode Island’s robust defense industry.”
“Through the support of our RI congressional delegation, Polaris MEP and Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network, especially surrounding networking and connecting with both our RI and New England Neighbors, the Brickle Group has been able to establish a supply chain that can meet and exceed the textile demands of the U.S. Department of Defense,” said Max Brickle, President of The Brickle Group.
Both the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network (RITIN) and Real Jobs RI were critical elements of Brickle Group’s success in landing these contracts. The networking opportunities provided by RITIN allowed Rhode Island and regional textile companies to organize in support of Brickle’s need to pull together a local supply chain that increases efficiencies and lowers costs. The Real Jobs RI platform and Polaris MEP provided training that helped Brickle develop its internal talent to meet the demanding standards of the Defense Department, as well as insured future access to flexible, on-demand training.
“One of RITIN’s fundamental goals is to increase networking opportunities among Rhode Island’s textile companies. So, as an organization, we are thrilled that those networking opportunities played a part in the Brickle Corporation’s ability to pull together a consortium of local companies to land this contract. Rhode Island’s textile community is stronger when we work together.”
The clothing and textiles contracts span over 5 years, with production taking place at the Brickle group’s Woonsocket facility as well at its New England textile partners. The Brickle Group has been producing the U.S. Military blanket for over 40 years. The U.S. Navy has added its version to the collection, which the Brickle Group is currently producing in its Woonsocket facility. The U.S. Navy Gray blanket is produced of 100% wool, providing warmth and durability to service the warfighter on U.S. Navy ships.
This marks the first year that the Brickle Group has been awarded this contract for Gen III Layer VII Parka and Trousers as well as the Snow Camo Trouser and Parka. These items make up the outermost layer of protection of the Gen III Extreme Cold Weather System. Adopted by the U.S. Army and U.S. Airforce, they are designed for use during extreme cold and dry conditions.
Strong partnerships was the central theme of a Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support Clothing and Textiles military service and industry engagement event Nov. 6-7 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
More than 800 representatives from DLA, the military services and American clothing and textiles industry attended the fifth annual Joint Advanced Planning Brief for Industry.
“Strong partnerships: that’s exactly what this event is about,” DLA Troop Support Commander Army Brig. Gen. Gavin Lawrence said. “It’s about forging strong partnerships between DLA as integrator of multiple supply chains, the [military] services that place the demands on DLA, and our partners in industry that provide the materiel in an expeditious manner to our warfighters.”
The two-day event provided an opportunity for DLA and the military services to brief industry partners on future requirements and business opportunities for clothing and individual equipment.
“I’m excited at the opportunity this forum presents,” Lawrence said. “We have the ability with our service teammates and partners in industry to achieve a lot in terms of dialogue that can be meaningful to what we focus on at DLA, at that’s support to the warfighter.”
Army Deputy Program Executive Officer for Soldier Ross Guckert, provided the event’s keynote address, and discussed the organization’s mission, vision and priorities, and how industry can help achieve them.
“Our intent here is to make sure you’re aiming at the right target,” Guckert said. “We get you guys aiming in the right direction to help us solve our problems.”
Representatives from other military program offices also presented ways industry can assist with future requirements, including Marine Corps Systems Command, Navy Exchange Service Command and the Air Force Humans Systems Program Office.
For the Marine Corps, item improvements industry can help with include lighter and more flexible body armor and plates, flame resistant fabrics and maternity uniforms, described Marine Corps Lt. Col. Andrew Konicki, the Clothing and Equipment for Infantry Combat Equipment program manager at MARCOSYSCOM.
C&T’s director, Air Force Col. Joseph Elkins, also emphasized the theme of industry assistance towards improvements.
“What I want to remind [our industry partners] is, anything you see that we can do better, faster, harder, stronger in your commercial customer base, let us know,” Elkins said.
Lawrence described how industry has already helped improve the supply chain, by highlighting DLA’s successes from fiscal year 2019, including materiel availability, one of the key metrics DLA measures.
“When a customer places an order, [materiel availability is] having the items on hand to fill that requirement,” Lawrence explained. “We got up to the 90th percentile in fiscal 2019 and our [DLA] director has given us the additional challenge in fiscal 2020 to see if we can get that up to 93rd percent for our materiel availability.”
Lawrence also described C&T successes from fiscal 2019, including helping the Air Force transition to the operational camouflage pattern utility uniform and providing Berry Compliant athletic footwear to Air Force and Navy recruits for the first time, with Army and Marine Corps receiving the footwear in the first quarter of fiscal 2020.
“We absolutely could not have achieved what we did without the relationships and strong partnerships that we have,” Lawrence said.
In addition to briefing about upcoming requirements, the JAPBI also provided vendors who may be new to government contracting, an opportunity to learn how to navigate the solicitation process, said Donna Pointkouski, JAPBI event curator and C&T’s Strategic Material Sourcing Division chief. Pointkouski gave anecdotes of vendors who have been successful in securing contract awards due to their participation at previous JAPBI events.
“If you’re a new vendor, I offer these stories as encouragement that it is possible, and [encourage you] to meet as many people as you can while you’re here,” Pointkouski said.
A new DLA video, ‘Fabric of America,’ also debuted at this year’s JAPBI, highlighting the ‘life’ of an Army combat uniform from cotton to recruit issuance.
“We wanted to create something that highlights the complexity of the supply chain,” Pointkouski said. “This video proves that we, DLA and the services together, can’t support the warfighter without you, and without your employees.”
On Tuesday, December 10, the School of Fashion Design, Boston, will celebrate the season at their annual holiday party and silent auction fundraiser. Over 40 vintage garments from the SFD archives up for auction! Silent auction proceeds benefit SFD student programs and technical resources.
Buy tickets at eventbrite.
Customs Bulletin And Decisions, Vol. 53, No. 40, November 6, 2019, contains two items of interest--
In such complex cases CBP often consults the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System Explanatory Notes ("ENs") which constitute the "official interpretation of the Harmonized System" at the international level. (See 54 Fed. Reg. 35127, 35128 (Aug. 23, 1989).) While neither legally binding nor dispositive, the ENs "provide a commentary on the scope of each heading" of the HTSUS and are "generally indicative of [the] proper interpretation" of these headings. However, the Harmonized System ("HS") itself, and the U.S. tariff schedule that is based on the HS, the ENs are available only for purchase, and they are quite expensive, 749 Euro. And, as they are periodically updated, that is a recurring cost.
------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH, LAMINATED Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0470 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 126TH AIRCREW JACKETS Sol. #: W91SMC19Q5055 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Used Luggage Sol. #: 70T02020Q9NNCP067 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 84 -- Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue Sol. #: 7FCI-L3-030084-B Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU) Sol. #: W911QY-19-R-0040 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Insulated HalfJak Sol. #: Benning375JJT001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployment Items Sol. #: FA487720Q8005 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: BAYONET KIT Sol. #: SPE1C120T0201 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.
Description: This recall involves 15 styles of youth-sized sweatshirts with the “Hooey” brand or logo and drawstrings in the hood. The sweatshirts are polyester and cotton. The sweatshirts generally have a single front pocket. They were sold in boys’ and girls’ sizes XS, S, M, L, XL. A white size label has the word “Hooey” and “Made in China” and is located at the center back neck of the sweatshirts. A label in the side seam has the garment care instructions.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled sweatshirts away from children and remove the drawstring to eliminate the hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported
Sold At: Boot Barn, Orscheln’s, Cavenders and other western wear apparel stores from September 2017 through October 2019 for about $45.
Importer(s): Hooey LLC, of Spring Branch, Texas
Manufactured In: China
Recall number: 20-018
Counterfeit Honda Airbags Mislabeled as “Plastic Boards”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers assigned to Ontario International Airport (ONT) express air cargo operations in Ontario, California in coordination with import specialists assigned to the Automotive & Aerospace Center of Excellence (AA Center) seized eight counterfeit Honda airbags arriving in two express packages from China.
Honda airbags arriving in two express packages
from China.
On September 12, CBP officers discovered the airbags while conducting an enforcement examination of the express packages. AA Center import specialists confirmed that the airbags were in violation of the Honda protected trademark. If genuine, the seized airbags would have an estimated manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $4,856.
“Protecting the health and safety of the American consumer is a top priority for CBP,” said Carlos C. Martel, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles. “Counterfeit airbags pose American motorists in extreme danger, they can fail to deploy or even hurt passengers during a collision.”
Airbag fraud occurs after a vehicle is involved in a wreck and the original airbags are replaced. Consumers buying airbags from non-legitimate sources online may encounter counterfeit versions sold at what appears to be a deep discount.
sources online may encounter counterfeit
versions sold at what appears to
be a deep discount.
“Airbags are essential car safety features and we know counterfeit devices are a major invisible threat already associated with fatalities in the United States,” NHTSA Acting Administrator James Owens said. “As a safety agency, NHTSA takes these cases extremely seriously and we applaud CBP’s efforts to intercept dangerous products before they get into circulation. NHTSA values its partnership with CBP and this work is literally saving lives.”
“CBP commits substantial resources to detect, intercept and seize illicit goods arriving in the express package environment,” said Donald R. Kusser, CBP Port Director overseeing ONT international operations. “Counterfeiters are constantly attempting to take advantage of consumers by disguising their illicit goods as legitimate shipments.”
CBP focuses on priority trade issues such as intellectual property rights and health and safety, in order to protect consumers from harmful products.
CBP established an educational initiative to raise consumer awareness and consciousness about the consequences and dangers that are often associated with the purchase of counterfeit and pirated goods. Information about the Truth Behind Counterfeits public awareness campaign can be found at fakegoodsrealdangers.
If you have any suspicion of or information regarding suspected fraud or illegal trade activity, please report the trade violation to e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) violations can also be reported to the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center at iprcenter.gov/referral or by telephone at 1-866-IPR-2060.
NHTSA’s mission is to save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce economic costs due to road traffic crashes through education, research, safety standards, and enforcement. The agency advises that the following consumers that may be at risk of owning a counterfeit air bag:
Concerned consumers should contact their local certified automotive franchised dealer to have their vehicle inspected and visit nhtsa.gov/equipment/air-bags for more information.
The COAC will hear from the current subcommittees on the topics listed below and then will review, deliberate, provide observations, and formulate recommendations on how to proceed:
1. The Next Generation Facilitation Subcommittee will provide an update on the One U.S. Government Working Group's progress and an overview of the recent two-day meeting, during which the working group discussed the Global Business Identifier and working group priorities. There will be a subcommittee update on the progress of the Unified Entry Processes Working Group's development of an operational framework and the mapping of deficiencies in the current entry process. The subcommittee will discuss progress on the Emerging Technologies Working Group's various initiatives, including the recent completion of the Intellectual Property Rights Blockchain Proof of Concept testing and follow-up assessment. Finally, the subcommittee will provide an update on the efforts of the E-Commerce Working Group's projects and pilots.
2. The Secure Trade Lanes Subcommittee will provide updates on the Trusted Trader Working Group's activites. They will also provide an analysis of the In-Bond processes with a view to areas that are being developed for greater efficiency. The newly launched Export Modernization Working Group will provide updates regarding categorizing issues with export handling and identification of export data elements and opportunities for export process efficiencies. The Export Modernization Working Group may also submit recommendations for COAC's consideration. The subcommittee will report on the planned scope of work to be addressed by the newly formed Remote and Autonomous Cargo Processing Working Group.
3. The Rapid Response Subcommittee will provide an update regarding the newly formed Broker Continuing Education Taskforce and their goal to evaluate a continuing education framework for licensed customs brokers.
4. The Intelligent Enforcement Subcommittee will discuss their progress and activities, and they may also submit recommendations from the working groups under their jurisdiction for COAC's consideration. There will be updates from the following: the recently launched Intellectual Property Rights Working Group, which encompasses the visions of the 21st Century Customs Framework; the Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duties (AD/CVD) Working Group (reporting on its efforts to discuss the AD/CVD Redesign and Date of Duty Calculation); the Bond Working Group (reporting on risk-based bonding and bond sufficiency); and, the Forced Labor Working Group, which was previously on hiatus (reporting on new topics).
Do you pause for a moment of silence at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month? I remember, decades ago, in grade school, we all did so in observance of Armistice Day, even though the name of the commemoration had been official changed to Veterans Day way back in 1954.
Without question, we do right to honor our soldiers, seamen, airmen, marines, and coast guard with a public holiday. But let us not forget the origins of Veterans Day/Armistice Day, as remembrance of the end of the "War to End All Wars." Thomas Hardy wrote And There Was a Great Calm on the occasion of the signing of the armistice, here's one stanza --
Breathless they paused. Out there men raised their glance
To where had stood those poplars lank and lopped,
As they had raised it through the four years’ dance
Of Death in the now familiar flats of France;
And murmured, 'Strange, this! How? All firing stopped?'
In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day. In 1926 Congress officially encouraged the observance of the day throughout the nation, but in was not until 1938 that Armistice Day became a legal federal holiday.
In 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars and President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day Proclamation. Subsequent Presidents have continued the practice of issuing such proclamations.
By the way, Veterans Day is always on November 11th, which this year is a Monday. In 1968 the Uniform Holiday Bill removed several federal holidays from their traditional dates, placing them on Mondays in order to create three-day weekends. But many were not pleased with this tinkering with Veterans Day and in 1975 President Gerald R. Ford signed the law which returned the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date of November 11, beginning in 1978. This action supported the desires of the overwhelming majority of state legislatures, all major veterans service organizations and the American people.
For more information on the celebration of Veterans Day, see www.va.gov/opa/vetsday
God Bless the United States of America!
Paige Witzen, Consumer Product Safely Commission Directorate of Laboratory Sciences, will be attending the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorist ("AATCC") fall committee meetings in Raleigh, NC, November 12-13, 2019.
On November 12, 2019, The Brickle Group will announce Defense Logistics Agency ("DLA") contract awards with Governor Raimondo, Senator Reed, Senator Whitehouse and Congressman Cicilline.
------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH - LAMINATED Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0499 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: Used Luggage Sol. #: 70T02020Q9NNCP067 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Vietnam War Commemoration Lapel Pins Sol. #: HQ0034-20-R-0005 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Enhanced Fire Retardant Clothing Ensemble (EFRCE) Sol. #: N6470919Q0059 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SKIRT,WOMAN'S Sol. #: SPE1C120Q0013 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GARRISON CAPS Sol. #: W911SD-20-Q-0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Orthopedic Footwear for the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's employees at the DC facility Sol. #: 2031ZA20N00005 Agency: Department of the Treasury ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Safety Shoes Mobile Service for the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's employees at the DC Facility Sol. #: 2031ZA20N00006 Agency: Department of the Treasury ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH,PLAIN WEAVE Sol. #: SPE1C120Q0025 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployer Gear Requirement Sol. #: W50S8R-20-R-0006 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Marine Corps Unisex Dress Gloves Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-R-0016 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Soloman 4D Forces 2 Coyote Brown Sol. #: 0075Solomon Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Layer 6 Jackets Sol. #: SPE1C120R0015 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: WELDING GLOVES Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0438 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Safety Shoe Mobile Service Sol. #: SP330020Q0007 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: APG Laundry Service J&A Sol. #: W91YTZ-20-P-0016 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: USMC LAYER 6 JACKETS Sol. #: SPE1C1-19-R-0179 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ZUMRO Model 216 & 400 Shelter Systems Sol. #: 0011345192 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Deployer Gear Requirement Sol. #: W50S8R-20-R-0006 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: WELDING GLOVES Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0438 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSIGNIA,GRADE,ENLI Sol. #: SPE1C120T0095 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH,COATED Sol. #: SPE1C119T2449 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: NIJ Standard 0101.06 body armor level IIIA ballistic impact protection. Sol. #: N0018920RFI01 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Extra- Large Solid Black Customized Heavy-Duty Collapsible Bag w/ (2) wheels with a Rugged,abrasion-resistant exterior Sol. #: W90VN620Q0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ULV CONCEALABLE BODY ARMOR Sol. #: RFQ-STAU-DSU-2001 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: THREE POINT COMBAT Sol. #: SPE1C120T0153 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Vietnam War Commemoration Lapel Pins Sol. #: HQ0034-20-R-0005 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Next Generation Integrated Head Protection System - Draft RFP Sol. #: W91CRB-20-R-0004_Draft_RFP Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Bedroom Living Kits Sol. #: 70FB8019Q00000002 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Burial Flags Sol. #: 36C10G20Q0011 Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Safety Footwear Blanket Purchase Agreement Sol. #: 12805B-20-F-0001 Agency: Department of Agriculture -------------------------------------------------------
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.
On October 18, 2019, the U.S. International Trade Commission released Report 4987 American Manufacturing Competiveness Act: Effects of Temporary Duty Suspensions and Reductions on the U.S. Economy
Main Findings:
- As of March 2019, over 90 percent of firms responding to the Commission's questionnaire imported or planned to import goods under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule 9902 headings (provisions) that provide temporary duty suspensions and reductions; about one-third of these firms have increased or planned to increase imports. Between November 2018 and May 2019, importers saved $179 million in duties on imports of $5.4 billion.
- As of March 2019, many responding firms stated they had not had enough time to take full advantage of the duty suspensions and reductions. Some respondents also reported that section 301 tariffs on products of China have lessened the positive impacts of the duty relief.
- As a result of the duty relief, nearly a quarter of responding manufacturers reported a decrease in production costs. Among all respondents, many expected future increases in sales volumes, number of customers, and investment in new product development. Compared with larger firms, more responding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reported that the duty relief has had positive effects on virtually all business operations.
- Chemicals firms account for the largest share of 9902 headings and imports. Thus, the largest number of responding firms reporting benefits from the duty relief are in the Chemicals group.
- The results of the Commission’s economic modeling suggest that the temporary duty relief will lead to a small increase in output, welfare, and gross domestic product (GDP) in the United States. Moreover, the average price of goods imported under the 9902 provisions will likely decline, although not by the full amount of the duty reduction.
Case Study: Textiles
- During the period November 2018–May 2019, importers saved $5 million in duties on imports of $109 million entered under the 9902 headings for the Textiles subgroup, equivalent to an average duty reduction of 4.7 percentage points.
- Nearly 90 percent of firms responding to the Commission's questionnaire reported that they import or plan to import textile products eligible for duty suspensions or reductions under the 9902 provisions, and over a quarter have increased or plan to increase these imports.
- Responding firms in this subgroup reported increases in investment in new product development and employment. Nearly 35 percent of respondents anticipate increases in sales volume, and almost one-third expect increases in their customer base.
- Two of 6 responding retailers and distributors/wholesalers lowered the prices of their imported products sold to customers because of the temporary duty relief, and 4 of 6 anticipate decreases in the future.
- Nearly half of responding manufacturers reported that their production costs declined as a direct result of the 9902 provisions, and half anticipate this cost reduction will decrease in the future. Additionally, 27 percent anticipate increases in production volume as a direct result of the tariff relief.
The articles in are processed in more than one country, which complicated the country of origin determination.
Styles S-10 and 12
Style S-14
Styles T-10 and 12
CBP HOLDING:
CBP's reasoning in this case can be viewed at CUSTOMS BULLETIN AND DECISIONS, VOL. 53, NO. 39, OCTOBER 30, 2019
The cartoon hands classified in NY N006668 are an oversized pair of “cartoon hand” style gloves, 12″ wide and 11″ in length, with one thumb and three fingers made from 100 percent polyester knit fabric and stuffed with foam. It also allows for the insertion of the thumb and separate insertion of the fingers.
CBP's reasoning in this case can be viewed at CUSTOMS BULLETIN AND DECISIONS, VOL. 53, NO. 39, OCTOBER 30, 2019
The question of whether imported merchandise is a "festive article" duty-free under a Heading 9505 provision or an article of wearing apparel or a textile article, subject to the import duties applicable to goods of chapters 61 through 63, has been the subject of litigation, Customs rulings and ruling reversals. Clients of Agathon Associates can read more at www.agathonassociates.com/textile-pri/festive-articles/.
A World Trade Organization ("WTO") dispute panel has agreed with the United States that India provides prohibited export subsidies to Indian exporters worth over $7 billion annually. According to the panel, India gives prohibited subsidies to producers of steel products, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, information technology products, textiles, and apparel, to the detriment of American workers and manufacturers.
The Indian programs found in violation of WTO rules are: the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme ("MEIS"); Export Oriented Units Scheme ("EOU) and related sector specific schemes; Special Economic Zones ("SEZ"); Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme; and a duty free imports for exporters program. The panel gave India six months to withdraw these prohibited subsidies.
According to the Indian Government, thousands of Indian companies are receiving subsidies totaling over $7 billion annually from these programs, and India has increased the size and scope of these programs. For example, India has rapidly expanded the MEIS to include more than 8,000 eligible products, nearly double the number of products covered since its introduction in 2015. Exports under the SEZ have increased over 6,000 percent from 2000 to 2017 and in 2016 accounted for over $82 billion in exports, or 30 percent of India’s export volume. Exports from the EOU increased by over 160 percent from 2000 to 2016.
Export subsidies provide an unfair competitive advantage to recipients, and WTO rules expressly prohibit them. A limited exception to this rule is for specified developing countries that may continue to provide export subsidies temporarily until they reach a defined economic benchmark. India was initially within this group, but it surpassed the benchmark in 2015. India’s exemption has expired, but India has not withdrawn its export subsidies.
The October 31, 2019, panel report rejects India’s assertion that it is entitled to additional time to provide export subsidies even after hitting the defined economic benchmark. The panel report concludes that each program is an export subsidy inconsistent with India's WTO obligations.
The withdrawal of these prohibited subsidies will result in American workers and manufacturers competing on a fairer basis with their Indian competitors.
See 84 FR 58427
On October 31, 2019, the Executive Office of the President published in the Federal Register (84 FR 58567) Proclamation 9955 of October 25, 2019 To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized System of Preferences and for Other Purposes.
UKRAINE. The proclamation restores the duty-free treatment accorded under GSP to certain products from Ukraine because the country has made progress towards providing adequate and effective protection of intellectual property rights. The list of products restored to GSP eligibility for Ukraine is available at http://ustr.gov/sites/default/files/files/gsp/Products_to_be_restored_to_GSP_eligibility_for_Ukraine.pdf
THE REPUBLIC OF MALI. The proclamation designates Mali a lesser developed beneficiary sub-Saharan African country (LDBC), thus qualifying it for LDBC preferential benefits. This action will take effect thirty days from the signing of the proclamation, November 24, 2019. Mali's AGOA benefits had been restored by Presidential Proclamation 9072 (December 23, 2013) which designated the Republic of Mali as a beneficiary sub-Saharan African country to the AGOA program; however, this Presidential Proclamation did not designate the Republic of Mali as a "lesser developed beneficiary sub-Saharan African country." As a consequence, Mali was unable to take advantage of special rules for certain apparel articles imported from "lesser developed beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries," in particular the third country fabric provision that enables Mali to produce apparel competitively.
THAILAND. The proclamation withdraws the duty-free treatment accorded under GSP to certain products from Thailand because the country is not taking steps to afford workers in Thailand internationally recognized worker rights. This action will take effect six months from the issuance of this proclamation. Additional guidance will be issued close to the date of implementation. The list of products excluded from GSP eligibility for Thailand is available at: http://ustr.gov\sites\default\files\files\gsp\Products_to_be_removed_from_GSP_eligibility_for_Thailand.pdf
If questions contact the Trade Agreements Branch at FTA@CBP.DHS.gov.
------------------------------------------------------- Title: TENT Sol. #: SPE1C120T0147 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Extra- Large Solid Black Customized Heavy-Duty Collapsible Bag w/ (2) wheels with a Rugged,abrasion-resistant exterior Sol. #: W90VN620Q0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MH/AH-6 Flight Helmets Sol. #: 20191007 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FLAG,NATIONAL Sol. #: SPE1C120T0146 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DISPOSABLE FME COVERALLS Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0175 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: Safety Shoe Mobile Service Sol. #: SP330020Q0007 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Extra- Large Solid Black Customized Heavy-Duty Collapsible Bag w/ (2) wheels with a Rugged,abrasion-resistant exterior Sol. #: W90VN620Q0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Used Luggage Sol. #: 70T02020Q9NNCP067 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Rolling Loadout Bag Sol. #: 70T05020Q7NPF1001 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GARRISON CAPS Sol. #: W911SD-20-Q-0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Plastic Film Sheeting Sol. #: SPMYM320Q3002 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Master BPA - Tactical Equipment Sol. #: 20112157_Watkins Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Extra- Large Solid Black Customized Heavy-Duty Collapsible Bag w/ (2) wheels with a Rugged, abrasion-resistant exterior Sol. #: W90VN6-20-Q-0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH,IMPREGNATED Sol. #: SPE1C120T0133 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SHOULDER CORD,INFAN Sol. #: SPE1C119T1846 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: BOOT, COMBAT, HOT WEATHER, (Desert Sand) Sol. #: 81970011 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: BOOT, FIREMAN'S, TYPE I Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-Q-0023 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: HIGH WIND & WATER RESISTANT TENTS Sol. #: NCCC19-0177 Agency: Corporation for National and Community Service ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Liner, Entrance Wall MCP Sol. #: 0081971499 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPEAR TSA & MSAP Sol. #: H92403-19-R-0006 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Sources Soughtr/RFI for Army Combat Helmets (Legacy) Sol. #: W91CRB-20-R-ACHL Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPEAR TSA & MSAP Sol. #: H92403-19-R-0006 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPMYM2-20-Q-0424 Sol. #: SPMYM2-20-Q-0424 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tyvek Coveralls IDPO - Part Numbers GEN-24165; 44428 Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-R-X003 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: LENS,VISOR Sol. #: SPE1C119T1964 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: LEEK Sol. #: 16MPBDEED001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ULV CONCEALABLE BODY ARMOR Sol. #: RFQ-STAU-DSU-2001 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SERVICE RIBBON,AWARD Sol. #: SPE1C119T2480 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Leather Sol. #: FN1486-19 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: CLOTH, LAMINATED Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0470 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Clipboard, Pilot's Sol. #: SPE1C1-19-R-0175 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: LINER,WATERBAG Sol. #: SPE1C120T0119 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TROUSERS,MEN'S Sol. #: Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DECORATION SET,INDI Sol. #: SPE1C120T0114 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: WATERBAG,DRINKING Sol. #: SPE1C120T0118 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Tyvek Coveralls Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-R-X003 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: Rolling Loadout Bag Sol. #: 70T05020Q7NPF1001 Agency: Department of Homeland Security ------------------------------------------------------- Title: COVERALLS, DISPOSABLE Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0463 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPEAR TSA & MSAP Sol. #: H92403-19-R-0006 Agency: Other Defense Agencies ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MCPS Jacket and Trouser Sol. #: SPE1C1-19-R-0176 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.
On October 28, 2019, the Office of the United States Trade Representatives published in the Federal Register (84 FR 57803) Notice of Product Exclusions: China’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, and Innovation.
SUMMARY: In September 2018, the U.S. Trade Representative imposed additional duties on goods of China with an annual trade value of approximately $200 billion as part of the action in the Section 301 investigation of China's acts, policies, and practices related to transfer, intellectual property, and innovation. The U.S. Trade Representative initiated a product exclusion process in June 2019, and interested persons have submitted requests for the exclusion of specific products. This notice announces the U.S. Trade Representative's determination to grant certain exclusion requests, as specified in the annex to this notice.
DATES: The product exclusions announced in this notice will apply as of the September 24, 2018, effective date of the $200 billion action, to August 7, 2020.
Items 13 through 19 on the list are textile articles.
| (13) | Yarn of carded Merino sheep wool, not put up for retail sale, containing 85 percent by weight of wool, of which the average fiber diameter is not more than 25 microns | 5106.10.0090 |
| (14) | Woven dyed fabrics of 100 percent textured polyester filament yarn, measuring 332.7 cm in width, weighing more than 170 g/m2 | 5407.52.2060 |
| (15) | Nonwoven fabrics of man-made fibers, weighing more than 25 g/m2 but not more than 70 g/m2, with a smooth or embossed texture (not impregnated, coated or covered with material other than or in addition to rubber, plastics, wood pulp or glass fibers), in rolls that are pre-slitted in lengths of not less than 15 cm to not more than 107 cm, for use in the manufacture of personal care wipes | 5603.12.0090 |
| (16) | Seat belt webbing of man-made fibers, measuring 25 mm or more but not exceeding 50 mm in width, not cut to specific length | 5806.32.2000 |
| (17) | Imitation leather fabrics, of man-made fibers impregnated, coated, covered or laminated with 75 percent polyvinyl chloride (PVC) by weight | 5903.10.2090 |
| (18) | Fabrics of man-made micro-denier fibers impregnated, coated, covered, or laminated with polyurethane, of a width of at least 135 cm but no more than 150 cm, weighing at least 206 g/m2 but not more than 500 g/m2 | 5903.20.2500 |
| (19) | Long pile knit fabrics, of acrylic pile on polyester ground, valued not over $16 per m2 | 6001.10.2000 |
On October 24, 2019, the Office of the United States Trade Representative published in the Federal Register (84 FR 57144) [Docket Number USTR–2019–0005] Procedures for Requests To Exclude Particular Products From the August 2019 Action Pursuant to Section 301: China’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, and Innovation.
The portal for filing will open October 31, 2019, and close January 31, 2020.
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has released The Year in Trade 2018, its annual overview of developments regarding the administration of U.S. trade laws and trade agreements.
The USITC's The Year in Trade is one of the government's most comprehensive reports available regarding activities related to U.S. trade policies, agreements, and trade laws. This report is the 70th in a series of annual reports submitted to the U.S. Congress under section 163(c) of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2213(c)) and its predecessor legislation.
The publication reviews U.S. international trade laws and actions under these laws, activities of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and developments regarding U.S. free trade agreements (FTAs), FTA negotiations, and U.S. bilateral trade relations with major trading partners in 2018.
The Year in Trade 2018 covers:
The report also provides an overview of U.S. trade in goods and services during 2018. Statistical tables highlight U.S. bilateral trade with major trading partners and trade under U.S. trade preference programs and free trade agreements.
An interactive, web-based version of The Year in Trade 2018 will be released later this month on October 17, 2019.
The Year in Trade 2018 (USITC Publication 4986, October 2019) will be posted on the USITC's Internet site at https://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/pub4986.pdf. Other reports in this series dating back to 1948 can also be found on the Commission's website at https://www.usitc.gov/annual_reports_archive.
Read more: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/5-manufacturing-innovations-will-change-world-180973108/.
------------------------------------------------------- Title: Mobility Bag Sol. #: W90VN619R0024 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: LEEK Sol. #: 16MPBDEED001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DISPOSABLE FME COVERALLS Sol. #: SPMYM220Q0175 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STREAMER SET,AWARD Sol. #: SPE1C120T0055 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GARRISON CAPS Sol. #: W911SD-20-Q-0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Navy, Slacks, Women's, Polyester, White Shade 3006 Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-R-X002 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TROUSERS,MEN'S Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: TROUSERS,MEN'S Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: PANEL MARKER Sol. #: SPE1C120T0112 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SPMYM2-20-Q-0424 Sol. #: SPMYM2-20-Q-0424 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: FORESTRY SERVICE SLEEPING BAG Sol. #: SPE1C120R0011 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Shoe, Molder Sol. #: SPE1C120Q0010 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Safety Shoe Mobile Service Sol. #: SP330020Q0007 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FLOOR,TENT Sol. #: SPE1C120T0105 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Mobility Bag Sol. #: W90VN619R0024 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSIGNIA,GRADE,ENLISTED Sol. #: SPE1C120T0066 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: Gloves, Leather, Unisex Sol. #: Gloves_Leather_Unisex-10-21-2019 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Fabric, Poly Terry Microfiber Warp Knit, Berry Amendment Compliant Sol. #: CT2278-20 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Special Warfare Procurement Multiple-Award IDIQ Contract (SW-MAC) Sol. #: FA8629-20-R-5003 Agency: Department of the Air Force ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Flag, Contamination Marking (Bio,Toxi, Gas) Sol. #: W56HZV-19-Q-0188 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: EDGING,HELMET,ADVAN Sol. #: SPE1C120Q0018 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: FMS/Peru Search & Resuce Equipment Agency: General Services Administration ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSIGNIA,GRADE,ENLI Sol. #: SPE1C120T0095 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Men's Army Trouser without Braid, Shade 451 Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-Q-0004 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Rayon Cloth Sol. #: N0017820Q6605 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: GARRISON CAPS Sol. #: W911SD-20-Q-0001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: MOLLE RIFLEMAN SET w/TAP - OCP Sol. #: SPE1C119R01290003 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Waterhog Enrty mats Sol. #: FortMICBelvoirANCMATS0001 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 Office: Federal Acquisition Service (FAS) ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Law Enforcement Ensemble Kit (LEEK) Sol. #: W911QY-20-LEEK 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: Insulated HalfJak Sol. #: Benning375JJT001 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: 68/P & 84/P Helmet Assembly and Associated Components Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-R-TBD1 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: RECEIVER,BAYONET,LH Sol. #: SPE1C120Q0015 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: SLACKS,WOMEN'S Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ULV CONCEALABLE BODY ARMOR Sol. #: RFQ-STAU-DSU-2001 Agency: Department of Justice ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Soloman 4D Forces 2 Coyote Brown Sol. #: 0075Boots2 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Soloman 4D Forces 2 Coyote Brown Sol. #: 0075Solomon Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: ECWCS Layer 6 & 7 Trousers, Layer 7 Parkas Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-R-0009 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Outdoor Backpack Sol. #: W1E0FW20191016 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: STRAP,WEBBING Agency: Defense Logistics Agency Office: DLA Acquisition Locations ------------------------------------------------------- Title: DRIVERS GLOVES Sol. #: W44W9M-20-T-0012 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: INSIGNIA,SHOULDER S Sol. #: SPE1C119T2465 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Kit Bag, Universal Parachute Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-Q-0014 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: KIT BAG, UNIVERSAL PARACHUTE Sol. #: SPE1C120Q0006 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Outdoor Backpack Sol. #: W1E0FW20191016 Agency: Department of the Army ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Fy 2020 Laundering @ Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Pick up and delivery of uniforms. Sol. #: 36C78620Q0066 Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Rayon Cloth Sol. #: N0017820Q6605 Agency: Department of the Navy ------------------------------------------------------- Title: EDGING,HELMET,ADVAN Sol. #: SPE1C120T0082 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: BERETS, VARIOUS Sol. #: SPE1C120R0003 Agency: Defense Logistics Agency ------------------------------------------------------- Title: Men's Army Trouser without Braid, Shade 451 Sol. #: SPE1C1-20-Q-0004 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.
