Tuesday, April 30, 2019

U.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Determinations in the Countervailing Duty Investigations of Imports of Polyester Textured Yarn from China and India

On April 29, 2019, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced the affirmative preliminary determinations in the countervailing duty (CVD) investigations of imports of polyester textured yarn from China and India, finding that exporters received countervailable subsidies ranging from 32.04 to 459.98 percent and 7.09 to 20.45 percent, respectively.

Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect cash deposits from importers of polyester textured yarn from China and India based on these preliminary rates.

In 2017, imports of polyester textured yarn from China and India were valued at an estimated $35 million and $19.6 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 158 new antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – this is a 216 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 477 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.

Commerce is currently scheduled to announce its final CVD determinations on or about September 10, 2019.

If Commerce makes affirmative final determinations, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) will be scheduled to make its final injury determinations on or about October 24, 2019. If Commerce makes affirmative final determinations in these investigations, and the ITC makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue CVD orders. If Commerce makes negative final determinations, or 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 this 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 law 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.

U.S. Considers Duty-Free Benefit for Mongolian Cashmere

On April 24, 2019, the United States-Mongolia Trade and Investment Council, established pursuant to the 2004 United States-Mongolia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), convened in Washington, D.C., to discuss opportunities for promoting and expanding bilateral trade and investment. The meeting was co-chaired by Terrence J. McCartin, Acting Assistant U.S. Trade Representative, and Damdinsuren Davaasuren, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the meeting, the United States and Mongolia welcomed the 31st anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Mongolia and took note of the Roadmap for Expanded Economic Partnership, which they endorsed in September 2018. They also highlighted the positive role that TIFA discussions can play in supporting Mongolia’s efforts to develop a prosperous market-based economy.

The United States and Mongolia also discussed a range of bilateral trade and investment issues. Key issues included transparency, the investment climate, intellectual property rights protection and enforcement, trade in cashmere, the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), trade facilitation, and trade promotion.

Mongolia will host the next meeting of the TIFA Council in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Total bilateral trade in goods was $131 million in 2018. U.S. goods exports to Mongolia in 2018 were $121 million, up 47.1% ($39 million) from 2017 and up 111.2% from 2008. Imports of goods from Mongolia were $10 million in 2018, of which $1.9 million, 19.2% of imports were of knitted apparel, and other textile articles totaled $377,000 or 3.7% of imports. (See 2018 U.S. Imports from Mongolia, data from USITC Dataweb.) U. S. foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mongolia was $147 million in 2017, a 63.3% increase from 2016.

On April 10, 2019, a Bill, H.R.2219, was filed in the U.S. House of Representatives "To promote United States-Mongolia trade by authorizing duty-free treatment for certain imports from Mongolia and for other purposes." A companion Bill, S.1188, was filed April 11, 2019, in the U.S. Senate. Agathon Associates has prepared an Annotated Version of the Mongolia Third Neighbor Trade Act. The bill provides for duty-free treatment of textile articles containing yarn and fabric made in Mongolia, of not less than 23 percent by weight of cashmere or for which the sum of the cost or value of cashmere components of the article is not less than 51 percent of the appraised value of the article.

Thursday, April 25, 2019

Contract for Navy Trousers and Maternity Slacks Awarded

Golden Manufacturing Co. Inc., Golden, Mississippi, has been awarded a maximum $15,999,149 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for Navy trousers and maternity slacks. This was a competitive acquisition with five responses received. This is an 18-month base contract with three one-year option periods. Location of performance is Mississippi, with an Oct. 23, 2020, estimated performance completion date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2019 through 2021 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-19-D-1160).

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Federal Business Opportunities through April 24, 2019

Recently posted federal business opportunities

-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Unit Crests and Patches - 136MP
Sol. #:            W912L1-19-Q-0105
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Police/ Law Enforcement Badge
Sol. #:            70US0918Q70090012
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
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Title:             Safety Steel Toe Boots
Sol. #:            1125504
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             WEBBING,TEXTILE
Sol. #:            SPE1C119Q0117
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             COVER,PREP SIDE
Sol. #:            SPE8ED19Q0528
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Try Tactical Epic TXP3A Body Armor and Epic Pouch Kits
Sol. #:            FA301019QA028
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             BADGE,QUALIFICATION
Sol. #:            SPE1C119Q0143
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             INSIGNIA,GRADE,ENLISTE
Sol. #:            SPE1C119T1512
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Patches & Chevrons West Point Cadets
Sol. #:            W911SD-19-R-0106
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             DHS Uniform Program II - Strategic Sourcing Effort
Sol. #:            70B01C19R00000003
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
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Title:             Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue
Sol. #:            7FCI-L3-030084-B
Agency:            General Services Administration
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Title:             SPEAR TSA & MSAP
Sol. #:            H92403-19-R-0006
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
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Title:             Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Supply
Sol. #:            W912CM19R0004
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Custodial Paper Products
Sol. #:            FA487719Q0213
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             CREEPERS,ICE
Sol. #:            SPE1C119Q0150
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             18/22 oz Fire Retardant Vinyl Tarps Size 12' x 30' color Tan Part Number SKU: FS-VLP22FR-12-30-Tan,Material:  100% PVC Laminate Polyester Scrim Fabric Weight:  22 oz. Per Square Yard, Thickness:  28, 
Sol. #:            FortPolkJRTCOPSGRPAAJ0001
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Rifleman Set w/TAP and Components
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-R-0021
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             STRUCTURAL BUNKER GEAR COAT AND PANTS
Sol. #:            M6261319Q0014
Agency:            Department of the Navy
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Title:             STRUCTURAL BUNKER GEAR COAT AND PANTS 
Sol. #:            M6261319Q1402
Agency:            Department of the Navy
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Title:             Engine Change Shelter
Sol. #:            W912KN19R5011
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             STS Mountain Tech Gear 
Sol. #:            W912KZ-19-Q-5017
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             GAITER,NECK
Sol. #:            SPE1C119Q01490002
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Body Armor for US Marshals Service
Sol. #:            15M10419RA4100001
Agency:            Department of Justice
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Title:             Battlefield Reference Marking Systems Panels
Sol. #:            W912L8-19-Q-0031
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Sources Sought for Helmets 
Sol. #:            W91CRB-19-46HL
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             CHAPLAIN'S KITS AND COMPONENTS
Sol. #:            CHAPLAINSKITSANDCOMPONENTS
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             JAVELIN CONTAINERS
Sol. #:            BRAGGUSAPTSJG0022
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             COVERALLS
Sol. #:            SPMYM2-19-Q-1470
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Liturgical Textiles Most holy Trinity Church West Point 
Sol. #:            W911SD-19-R-0090
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Engineering Daily Work Uniforms    
Sol. #:            36C25719Q0359
Agency:            Department of Veterans Affairs
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Title:             WORK JACKETS
Sol. #:            6923G219Q000002
Agency:            Department of Transportation
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Title:             Vital Torso Protection - Full Rate Production
Sol. #:            W91CRB-16-R-0010
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             HOOD AIR FED RESPIRATOR
Sol. #:            SPMYM2-19-Q-0825
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Personal Protective Equip/Apparel (PPE/PPA)
Sol. #:            FDA-RFQ-1209995
Agency:            Department of Health and Human Services
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Title:             COVERALLS, DISPOSABLE
Sol. #:            SPMYM2-19-Q-0150
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Clothing Ensembles
Sol. #:            Bragg1SWTGAM0001
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Integrated Head Protection System (IHPS) and Next Generation IHPS Mandible and Visor Components
Sol. #:            W91CRB-IHPS_NG-IHPS
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Tactical Equipment
Sol. #:            19BH2019Q0005-01
Agency:            Department of State
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Title:             Steel Toe Boots Sheppard AFB
Sol. #:            FA3020-19-Q-A013
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             Maritime Buoyant Plates (MBP)
Sol. #:            N61331-19-R-0014
Agency:            Department of the Navy
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Title:             Try-Decide-Buy (TDB) IDIQ RFP
Sol. #:            FA8606-19-R-0014
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             US COAST GUARD MEDALS & RIBBONS
Sol. #:            70Z04019Q61025Y00
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
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Title:             Military Shelter Tent
Sol. #:            FA700019Q028
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             Gloves, Flyers, Intermediate Cold, HAU-15/P
Sol. #:            SPE1C119R0050
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             SF Combat Shirts
Sol. #:            FA480919QA026
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             COVERALLS, 27P, MEN'S, FLYERS, SAGE GREEN;  COVERALLS, FLYER'S, WOMEN'S, CWU-27/P, TYPE II;  COVERALLS, FLYER'S, WOMEN'S, CWU-27/P, TYPE I
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-R-0069
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             FLC Norfolk has been tasked to procure a FFP Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract for uniform supply for the United States Air Force (USAF) Honor Guard.  
Sol. #:            N0018919Q0210
Agency:            Department of the Navy
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Title:             SPEAR Family of Tactical Headborne Systems
Sol. #:            H92222-17-R-0003
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
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Title:             Field Shower Portable
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-Q-0155
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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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.

Monday, April 22, 2019

CPSC Request for Information about Possible Exemptions from Testing and Other Changes to the Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requests information about possible changes to the Commission’s Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles to expand the list of fabrics that are exempt from testing under the standard. CPSC is particularly interested in receiving information about the possibility of adding spandex to the list of fabrics that are exempt from the testing requirements. CPSC also would like information about the equipment and procedures specified in the standard and possible ways to update those provisions to reduce the burdens associated with the testing requirements ... READ MORE

Thursday, April 18, 2019

U.S. Court of International Trade Rules Pet Carriers Are Textile Articles

In QUAKER PET GROUP, LLC, Plaintiff, v. UNITED STATES, Defendant, before: Gary S. Katzmann (Slip Op. 19–40) --
The court returns to the question of the tariff classification under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (2012) ("HTSUS") of Plaintiff Quaker Pet Group, LLC’s ("Quaker Pet") pet carrier products. Previously, the court held that, as a matter of law, Quaker Pet’s carriers could not be classified under HTSUS heading 4202, which comprises containers that organize, store, protect, and carry various items, because pets are living beings and not items. Quaker Pet Group, LLC v. United States, 42 CIT__, 287 F. Supp. 3d 1348 (2018). However, the undisputed facts available to the court at that time were insufficient to determine whether the pet carriers could be covered by HTSUS 6307 — a provision containing made up articles of textile that are not included under another tariff category — or some other HTSUS heading. Id. at 1359–60. The parties have undertaken discovery and provided the court with additional, undisputed facts, which now permit the court to conclude that Quaker Pet’s carriers should be classified under HTSUS 6307.

USITC Releases Report on Likely Effects of USMCA

On April 18, 2019, the USITC released (News Release 19-032 Inv. No. TPA-105-003) U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement: Likely Impact on the U.S. Economy and on Specific Industry Sectors.

Full Report: Publication Number: 4889

Main Findings:

  • The Commission used a combination of detailed quantitative and qualitative industry analyses and an economy-wide computable general equilibrium model to assess the likely impact of USMCA on the U.S. economy and industry sectors. The model estimates that, if fully implemented and enforced, USMCA would have a positive impact on U.S. real GDP and employment.
  • The elements of the agreement that would have the most significant effects on the U.S. economy are (1) provisions that reduce policy uncertainty about digital trade and (2) certain new rules of origin applicable to the automotive sector. Of interest to stakeholders in many sectors, particularly services industries, are USMCA’s new international data transfer provisions, including provisions that largely prohibit forced localization of computing facilities and restrictions on cross-border data flows. Industry representatives consider these provisions to be a crucial aspect of this agreement in terms of changing certain rules of trade across industry sectors, especially given the lack of similar provisions in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
     
  • Because NAFTA has already eliminated duties on most qualifying goods and significantly reduced nontariff measures, USMCA’s emphasis is on reducing remaining nontariff measures on trade and the U.S. economy; addressing other issues that affect trade, such as workers’ rights; harmonizing regulations from country to country; and deterring certain potential future trade and investment barriers.
     
  • USMCA would strengthen and add complexity to the rules of origin requirements in the automotive sector by increasing regional value content (RVC) requirements and adding other requirements. USMCA’s requirements are estimated to increase U.S. production of automotive parts and employment in the sector, but also to lead to a small increase in the prices and small decrease in the consumption of vehicles in the United States.
     
  • The agreement would establish commitments to open flows of data, which would positively impact a wide range of industries that rely on international data transfers. USMCA would reduce the scope of the investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanism, a change that, based on modeling results, would reduce U.S. investment in Mexico and would lead to a small increase in U.S. domestic investment and output in the manufacturing and mining sectors. The agreement, if enforced, would strengthen labor standards and rights, including those related to collective bargaining in Mexico, which would promote higher wages and better labor conditions in that country. New intellectual property rights provisions would increase protections for U.S. firms that rely on intellectual property. These changes are estimated to increase U.S. trade in certain industries.
     
  • The Commission’s model estimates that USMCA would raise U.S. real GDP by $68.2 billion (0.35 percent) and U.S. employment by 176,000 jobs (0.12 percent). The model estimates that USMCA would likely have a positive impact on U.S. trade, both with USMCA partners and with the rest of the world. U.S. exports to Canada and Mexico would increase by $19.1 billion (5.9 percent) and $14.2 billion (6.7 percent), respectively. U.S. imports from Canada and Mexico would increase by $19.1 billion (4.8 percent) and $12.4 billion (3.8 percent), respectively. The model estimates that the agreement would likely have a positive impact on all broad industry sectors within the U.S. economy. Manufacturing would experience the largest percentage gains in output, exports, wages, and employment, while in absolute terms, services would experience the largest gains in output and employment.

Textiles and Apparel

The USMCA's modifications to the NAFTA textile and apparel ROOs ease the requirements for duty-free treatment for certain products, but tighten the requirements for other products. Overall, the anticipated shifts in qualifying products are not likely to affect the aggregate volume of trade in textile and apparel. The USMCA modifies some "fiber-forward" and "yarn-forward" tariff shift rules, meaning that finished goods qualify for origination so long as the yarn and fabric are formed and finished in one of the partner countries. The tariff shift rules for goods classified under chapters 61 and 62 (knit and woven apparel) of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) are also modified. The NAFTA requirement that visible linings be sourced from one of the parties is eliminated, but new requirements specify that sewing thread, narrow elastic fabrics, and pocket bag fabrics must be sourced from one of the parties. The agreement has new rules for certain made-up goods described in HTS chapter 63, which are made from fabric coated with plastic.

Additionally, USMCA maintains tariff preference levels for bilateral imports in all directions, with modifications to scope of coverage and quantitative limits in some cases. USMCA would also add textile-specific enforcement language comparable to that found in other U.S. free trade agreements; the language provides guidance for on-site verification visits to producers in the exporting party.

Go Couture Recalls Children’s Loungewear Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard

Description: This recall involves Go Couture children’s loungewear sets. The sets are made of 47% polyester, 47% rayon and 6% spandex blended knit with a long-sleeve top and pant set. The long-sleeve top has a Henley neckline. The pants have an elastic waist band and a ribbed cuff at the ankle. The loungewear sets were available in pink and blue and sold in children’s sizes 12 months to 12 years. “GoCotureKids” is printed inside the garment on the neck label.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled loungewear and contact Go Couture for a full refund.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Uname it, Pajama Mama, Blew Boutique and other children’s stores nationwide and online at gocouturekids.com from August 2016 through November 2018 for $38.

Distributor(s): Go Couture, of Vernon, Calif.

Manufactured In: United States

Recall number: 19-106

Violating Made in USA order lands filtration seller in hot water

The FTC just announced a proposed settlement with Georgia-based iSpring Water Systems for violating a 2017 order related to the company’s Made in USA claims. The case offers a reminder to other companies to make sure their own Made in USA representations are water-tight.

iSpring sells filtration systems on its own site and through major online retailers. In 2017, the FTC alleged the company’s “Proudly Built in the USA” claims were false. “Proudly Built”? Maybe so, but not in the USA. According to the complaint, many of iSpring’s products were either wholly imported or made with a significant number of parts from overseas.

To settle the 2017 case, the company agreed not to make unqualified Made in USA claims unless it could show the product’s final assembly or processing – and all significant processing – takes place in the United States, and that all or virtually all components are made and sourced here.

Fast forward a year and the company started to promote the filtration systems it sells as “designed and crafted in USA.” But according to the FTC, that claim was false, too, and in violation of the order because many of the products iSpring advertised with that designation were wholly imported. To settle that order enforcement action, iSpring and two corporate officers will pay a $110,000 civil penalty and will have to notify affected consumers about their deceptive Made in USA representations.

READ MORE

FTC Approves Final Consents Settling Charges that Hockey Puck Seller, Companies Selling Recreational and Outdoor Equipment Made False ‘Made in USA’ Claims

Under the terms of the final orders, Statler and the four Patriot Puck companies, as well as Sandpiper and PiperGear, are prohibited from making unqualified U.S.-origin claims for their products, unless they can show that the products’ final assembly or processing—and all significant processing—takes place in the United States, and that all or virtually all ingredients or components of the product are made and sourced in the United States.

Under the orders, any qualified Made in USA claim must include a clear and conspicuous disclosure about the extent to which the product contains foreign parts, ingredients, and/or processing. To claim that a product is assembled in the United States, the respondents in both cases must ensure that it is last substantially transformed in the United States, its principal assembly takes place in the United States, and United States assembly operations are substantial.

READ MORE

USTR Published List of Exclusions from China 301 List 1

On April 18, 2019, the Office of the United States Trade Representative published in the Federal Register Notice of Product Exclusions: China's Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, and Innovation. This LIST relates entirely to exclusion requests from the FIRST LIST of articles subject to the 25% additional tariff.

...and there's a glitch ... CBP is aware of the issues with the Product Exclusions on goods from China added to ACE effective today. These Exclusions are causing a reject. CBP is actively working to resolve the issue and will send out an update when it is completed.

FTZ Request Filed for Upholstery Fabric

On April 18, 2019, the Foreign Trade Zone Board published in the Federal Register (84 FR 16245) Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) 80--San Antonio, Texas; Notification of Proposed Production Activity, CGT U.S., Ltd. (Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Coated Upholstery Fabric Cover Stock); New Braunfels, Texas

CGT U.S., Ltd. (CGT) submitted a notification of proposed production activity to the FTZ Board for its facility in New Braunfels, Texas.

Production under FTZ procedures could exempt CGT from customs duty payments on the foreign-status materials/components used in export production. On its domestic sales, for the foreign-status materials/components noted below, CGT would be able to choose the duty rate during customs entry procedures that applies to PVC coated upholstery fabric cover stock (duty free). CGT would be able to avoid duty on foreign-status components which become scrap/waste. Customs duties also could possibly be deferred or reduced on foreign-status production equipment.

The materials/components sourced from abroad include polyester knit woven dyed fabric and PVC plasticizer (duty rates are 14.9% and 6.5%, respectively). The request indicates that the polyester knit woven dyed fabric will be admitted to the zone in privileged foreign status (19 CFR 146.41), thereby precluding inverted tariff benefits on such items. The request also indicates that certain materials/components are subject to special duties under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 (Section 301), depending on the country of origin. The applicable Section 301 decisions require subject merchandise to be admitted to FTZs in privileged foreign status.

The request appears to by primarily directed toward deferring the 10% China 301 duty until the fabric enters U.S. commerce, avoiding duty on inputs that become scrap in the manufacturing process, and avoiding import duties entirely on non-textile inputs.

American Sheep Industry and Iowa State University develop secure sheep and wool plan

The American Sheep Industry Association has initiated a project to develop a Secure Sheep and Wool Supply Plan for Business Continuity in a Foreign Animal Disease Outbreak, working with the Center for Food Security and Public Health at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. READ MORE

WTO Boeing dispute: EU issues preliminary list of U.S. products considered for countermeasures

The European Commission yesterday launched a public consultation on a preliminary list of products from the United States on which the European Union may take countermeasures in the context of the ongoing Boeing dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO). The public consultation will last until 31 May 2019. Four tariff lines relating to cotton are on the list:
  • 52010090 cotton, neither carded nor combed (excl. rendered absorbent or bleached),
  • 52029100 garnetted stock of cotton,
  • 52029900 cotton waste (excl. yarn waste, thread waste and garnetted stock), and
  • 52030000 cotton, carded or combed.

Additionally, the list includes textile bandages and luggage and travel goods with a textile exterior.

READ MORE HERE

AAFA Celebrates Fashion’s Future With The American Image Awards

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) hosted the AAFA American Image Awards earlier this week with a sold-out event celebrating the accomplishments of the fashion and retail industry at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City. Hosted by award-winning actress Brooke Shields, the gala honored leaders, influencers, and innovators in the apparel and footwear industries and benefited the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Foundation. Read more in Textile World

CASHMERE WORLD 2019 FOCUSES ON SUSTAINABILITY, SUPPLY CHAIN AND CREATIVE DESIGNS

Sustainability was a hot topic at Cashmere World 2019, according to this report in Fashionating World.

Morocco Files Short Supply Request for Warp Knit Fabric

On April 18, 2019, the Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements published in the Federal Register (84 FR 16243) Request for Public Comment on a Commercial Availability Request Under the U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement

SUMMARY: The Government of the United States received a request from the Government of Morocco dated March 14, 2019, on behalf of GOTTEX SWIMWEAR BRANDS LTD to initiate consultations under Article 4.3.3 of the USMFTA. The Government of Morocco is requesting that the United States and Morocco (``the Parties'') consider revising the rules of origin for women's or girls' swimwear to address availability of supply of certain knit fabric in the territories of the Parties. The President of the United States may proclaim a modification to the USMFTA rules of origin for textile and apparel products after the United States reaches an agreement with the Government of Morocco on a modification under Article 4.3.6 of the USMFTA to address issues of availability of supply of fibers, yarns, or fabrics in the territories of the Parties. CITA hereby solicits public comments on this request, in particular with regard to whether certain knit fabric can be supplied by the U.S. domestic industry in commercial quantities in a timely manner.

DATES: Comments must be submitted by May 20, 2019.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background: Article 4.3.3 of the USMFTA provides that, on the request of either Party, the Parties shall consult to consider whether the rules of origin applicable to a particular textile or apparel good should be revised to address issues of availability of supply of fibers, yarns, or fabrics in the territories of the Parties. In the consultations, pursuant to Article 4.3.4 of the USMFTA, each Party shall consider all data presented by the other Party that demonstrate substantial production in its territory of a particular fiber, yarn, or fabric. The Parties shall consider that there is substantial production if a Party demonstrates that its domestic producers are capable of supplying commercial quantities of the fiber, yarn, or fabric in a timely manner.

The Government of the United States received a request from the Government of Morocco dated March 14, 2019, on behalf of GOTTEX SWIMWEAR BRANDS LTD, requesting that the United States consider whether the USMFTA rule of origin for women's or girls' swimwear classified under HTSUS 6112.41 should be modified to allow the use of printed and piece-dyed warp knit fabrics of polyester or nylon fibers, containing between 6% and 41% elastomeric yarns classified under subheading 6004.10 of the HTSUS that is not originating under the USMFTA.

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Federal Business Opportunities through April 17, 2019

Recently posted federal business opportunities

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Title:             ZetaLinerHelmetsInserts
Sol. #:            ZetaLinerHelmets
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
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Title:             Barbed Wire Gloves
Sol. #:            SPE1C119R0065
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
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Title:             Ballistic Vests
Sol. #:            Ballisticvests
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             Crates for Shipping
Sol. #:            106919E2198
Agency:            Department of State
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Title:             Engraving/Convocation Awards contract
Sol. #:            WPUSMAKB0001
Agency:            Department of the Army
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Title:             FLC Norfolk has been tasked to procure a FFP Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract for uniform supply for the United States Air Force (USAF) Honor Guard.  
Sol. #:            N0018919Q0210
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Total Solutions for Law Enforcement, Security, Facilities Management, Fire, Rescue
Sol. #:            7FCI-L3-030084-B
Agency:            General Services Administration
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Tactical Equipment
Sol. #:            19BH2019Q0005-01
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Handwear Solutions
Sol. #:            PANAPG-19-P-0000-018426
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Jacket, Flyer's, Leather, G1 Navy
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-R-0084
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GSA RFQ1360721 Combat Shirts Posting Notice
Sol. #:            RFQ1360473
Agency:            Department of the Air Force
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             BADGE,QUALIFICATION
Sol. #:            
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             LIGHT DUTY UTILITY GLOVE (LDUG)
Sol. #:            SPE1C119R0110
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Gloves, Leather, Light Duty (LDUG)
Sol. #:            SPE1C119R0049
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SAFETY SHOES - WEST
Sol. #:            
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Vanguard Mesh PT Shorts
Sol. #:            M3055019SU7LQDA
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Deployment Gear
Sol. #:            N6328519T0264
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             TENT
Sol. #:            SPE1C119T1443
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:             Body Armor Vest 
Sol. #:            SOF004
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Cloth, Gabardine: Wool, Polyester/Wool, Type II Class 12, Sky Blue MC Shade 2319, Mothproofed, Sponged
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-R-MC_Sky_Blue_Cloth
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Prefabricated Canopy
Sol. #:            ANCENGPW1005
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Water Bag 5 Gallon Suppression
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-Q-0160
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Biathlon Team Active Layer Winter Clothing
Sol. #:            W912LN-19-Q-0012
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Biathlon Team Passive Layer Winter Clothing
Sol. #:            W912LN-19-Q-0011
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Plastic Sheeting RFI/SS
Sol. #:            70FB7019I00000010
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Ceremonial Shelters
Sol. #:            ANCFO-0009
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FRAME ASSEMBLY
Sol. #:            
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Temper Tent Module/Military Field Tent
Sol. #:            W91QEX-19-Q-0029
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Uniforms and Accessories
Sol. #:            SILL-DES-WB-0001
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Force 1 Face Mask
Sol. #:            20107443_01
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Force 1 Face Mask
Sol. #:            20107443_02
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             LINER,BACKPACK PUMP
Sol. #:            SPE1C119T1433
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             VISOR,FLYER'S HELME
Sol. #:            SPE1C119Q0151
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Tactical Equipment
Sol. #:            19BH2019Q0005-01
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Tactical Equipment
Sol. #:            19BH2019Q0005
Agency:            Department of State
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Retention Publicity Items
Sol. #:            040112019
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Battlefield Reference Marking Systems Panels
Sol. #:            W912L8-19-Q-0031
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Commercial Item, Fabric Pre-Cuts for Liners, AF Trunks
Sol. #:            CT2260-19
Agency:            Department of Justice
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Coat_Men_and_Womens_Air_Force_Blue_Shade_1620
Sol. #:            Coat_Men_and_Womens_Air_Force_Blue_Shade_1620
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Flight Deck Crewman Helmet
Sol. #:            SPE1C1-19-R-0071
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Plastic Sheeting RFI/SS
Sol. #:            70FB7019I00000010
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Textile Tape
Sol. #:            47QSWA-19-D-1708
Agency:            General Services Administration
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             STRUCTURAL BUNKER GEAR COAT AND PANTS
Sol. #:            M6261319Q0014
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GLOVES
Sol. #:            SPMYM4-19-Q-0144
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             FLAG,NATIONAL
Sol. #:            
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             NCTRF PROTERA FR Twill Fabric
Sol. #:            N0018919QG064
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             GALLEY CLOTHING--CHEF CLOTHING WITH EMBROIDERY
Sol. #:            N0040619Q0168
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             PFPA Breathing Apparatus
Sol. #:            HQ003419R0066
Agency:            Other Defense Agencies
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             COOKIE G3 FREEFALL HELMET
Sol. #:            COOKIEG3-FREEFALLHELMETS
Agency:            Department of the Army
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Cold Weather Glove System
Sol. #:            W911QY-19-CWGS
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:             NEW-Female Pajamas (VA-19-00047201)    
Sol. #:            36C25719Q0551
Agency:            Department of Veterans Affairs
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Stake, Hold-Down Tent
Sol. #:            041019-8340-01-478-0136
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Tarps RFI
Sol. #:            70FB7019I00000009
Agency:            Department of Homeland Security
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Maritime Armor System (MAS)
Sol. #:            N61331-19-LH-0001
Agency:            Department of the Navy
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             Coat_Men_and_Womens_Air_Force_Blue_Shade_1620
Sol. #:            Coat_Men_and_Womens_Air_Force_Blue_Shade_1620
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             ARCH,TENT FRAME (LME)
Sol. #:            
Agency:            Defense Logistics Agency
-------------------------------------------------------
Title:             SAFETY SHOES - WEST
Sol. #:            
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.

Friday, April 12, 2019

U.S. Proposed Retaliatory Tariff of up to 100% on Certain Articles from the EU.

The United States Trade Representative is initiating an investigation to enforce U.S. rights in the World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute against the European Union (EU) and certain EU member States addressed to EU subsidies on large civil aircraft. The Trade Representative proposes determinations that the EU and certain member States have denied U.S. rights under the WTO Agreement and have failed to implement WTO Dispute Settlement Body recommendations. The Trade Representative proposes to take action in the form of additional duties, up to 100%, on certain products of the EU or certain member States.

May 6, 2019: Due date for submission of requests to appear at the public hearing and summary of testimony.

May 15, 2019: The Section 301 Committee will convene a public hearing in Washington, D.C.

May 28, 2019: Due date for submission of written comments, including post-hearing rebuttal comments.

Articles of EU Origin Proposed for Additional Tariffs of up to 100%

HTS SubheadingProduct Description
In the product descriptions, the abbreviation "nesoi" means "not elsewhere specified or included."
0303.57.00Swordfish steaks, other swordfish, excluding fillets, other meat portions, livers and roes.
0304.41.00Salmon fillets, fresh or chilled.
0304.42.00Trout, fillets, fresh or chilled.
0304.84.00Frozen swordfish fillets.
0306.14.20Crabmeat, frozen.
0306.14.40Crabs, cooked in shell or uncooked (whether in shell or not), dried, salted or in brine, frozen.
0306.19.00Crustaceans, nesoi (including flours, meals and pellets of crustaceans fit for human consumption), cooked in shell or uncooked, etc., frozen.
0403.10.50Yogurt, in dry form, whether or not flavored or containing add fruit or cocoa, not subject to gen nte 15 or add. US nte 10 to Ch.4.
0403.10.90Yogurt, not in dry form, whether or not flavored or containing add fruit or cocoa.
0405.10.10Butter subject to quota pursuant to chapter 4 additional US note 6.
0405.10.20Butter not subject to general note 15 and in excess of quota in chapter 4 additional U.S. note 6.
0406.10.28Fresh (unripened/uncured) cheddar cheese, cheese/subs for cheese cont or proc from cheddar cheese, not subj to Ch4 US note 18, not GN15.
0406.10.68Fresh (unripened/uncured) Swiss/ emmentaler cheeses exc eye formation, gruyere-process cheese and cheese cont or proc. from such, not subj.
0406.10.84Fresh cheese, and substitutes for cheese, cont. cow's milk, nesoi, o/0.5% by wt. of butterfat, descr in add US note 16 to Ch 4, not GN15.
0406.10.88Fresh cheese, and substitutes for cheese, cont. cow's milk, nesoi, o/0.5% by wt. of butterfat, not descr in add US note 16 to Ch 4, not GN 15.
0406.10.95Fresh cheese, and substitutes for cheese, not cont. cow's milk, nesoi, o/0.5% by wt. of butterfat.
0406.20.10Roquefort cheese, grated or powdered.
0406.20.69Cheese containing or processed from american-type cheese (except cheddar), grated or powdered, subject to add US note 19 to Ch. 4.
0406.20.91Cheese (including mixtures), nesoi, o/ 0.5% by wt of butterfat, w/cow's milk, grated or powdered, not subject to add US note 16 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.05Stilton cheese, processed, not grated or powdered, subject to add US note 24 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.18Blue-veined cheese (except roquefort), processed, not grated or powdered, not subject to gen. note 15 or add. US note 17 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.28Cheddar cheese, processed, not grated or powdered, not subject to gen note 15 or in add US note 18 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.34Colby cheese, processed, not grated or powdered, subject to add US note 19 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.38Colby cheese, processed, not grated or powdered, not subject to gen note 15 or add US note 19 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.48Edam and gouda cheese, processed, not grated or powdered, not subject to gen note 15 or add. US note 20 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.53Gruyere-process cheese, processed, not grated or powdered, not subject to gen note 15 or add. US note 22 to Ch. 4.
0406.30.69Processed cheese cont/procd fr american- type cheese (ex cheddar), not grated/ powdered, subject to add US note 19 to Ch. 4, not GN15.
0406.30.89Processed cheese (incl. mixtures), nesoi, w/cow's milk, not grated or powdered, subject to add US note 16 to Ch. 4, not GN15.
0406.40.44Stilton cheese, nesoi, in original loaves, subject to add. US note 24 to Ch. 4.
0406.40.48Stilton cheese, nesoi, not in original loaves, subject to add. US note 24 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.08Cheddar cheese, nesoi, subject to add. US note 18 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.12Cheddar cheese, nesoi, not subject to gen. note 15 of the HTS or to add. US note 18 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.32Goya cheese from cow's milk, not in original loaves, nesoi, not subject to gen. note 15 or to add. US note 21 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.46Swiss or Emmentaler cheese with eye formation, nesoi, subject to add. US note 25 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.48Swiss or Emmentaler cheese with eye formation, nesoi, not subject to gen. note 15 or to add. US note 25 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.52Colby cheese, nesoi, subject to add. US note 19 to Ch. 4 and entered pursuant to its provisions.
0406.90.54Colby cheese, nesoi, not subject to gen. note 15 or to add. US note 19 to Ch. 4.
0406.90.56Cheeses, nesoi, from sheep's milk in original loaves and suitable for grating.
0406.90.57Pecorino cheese, from sheep's milk, in original loaves, not suitable for grating.
0406.90.72Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from blue-veined cheese, subj. to add. US note 17 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.74Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from blue-veined cheese, not subj. to add. US note 17 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.78Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from cheddar cheese, not subj. to add. US note 18 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.82Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from Am. cheese except cheddar, subj. to add. US note 19 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.86Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from edam or gouda cheese, subj. to add. US note 20 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.88Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from edam or gouda cheese, not subj. to add. US note 20 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.90Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from swiss, emmentaler or gruyere, subj. to add. US note 22 to Ch.4, not GN15.
0406.90.92Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/or from swiss, emmentaler or gruyere, not subj. Ch4 US note 22, not GN15.
0406.90.94Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/butterfat n/o 0.5% by wt, not subject to add. US note 23 to Ch. 4, not GN15.
0406.90.95Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/cow's milk, w/butterfat o/0.5% by wt, subject to Ch 4 US note 16 (quota).
0406.90.97Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/cow's milk, w/butterfat o/0.5% by wt, not subject to Ch4 US note 16, not GN15.
0406.90.99Cheeses & subst. for cheese (incl. mixt.), nesoi, w/o cow's milk, w/ butterfat o/0.5% by wt, not GN15.
0805.10.00Oranges, fresh or dried.
0805.21.00Mandarins and other similar citrus hybrids including tangerines, satsumas, clementines, wilkings, fresh or dried.
0805.22.00Clementines, fresh or dried, other.
0805.29.00Wilkings and similar citrus hybrids, fresh or dried, other.
0805.40.80Grapefruit, fresh or dried, if entered during the period November 1 through the following July 31, inclusive.
0805.50.20Lemons, fresh or dried.
0805.50.30Tahitian lines, Persian limes and other limes of the Citrus latifolia variety, fresh or dried.
0805.50.40Limes of the Citrus aurantifolia variety, fresh or dried.
0805.90.01Citrus fruit, not elsewhere specified or included, fresh or dried, including kumquats, citrons and bergamots.
1509.10.20Virgin olive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, not chemically modified, weighing with the immediate container under 18 kg.
1509.10.40Virgin olive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, not chemically modified, weighing with the immediate container 18 kg or over.
1509.90.20Olive oil, other than virgin olive oil, and its fractions, not chemically modified, weighing with the immediate container under 18 kg.
1509.90.40Olive oil, other than virgin olive oil, and its fractions, not chemically modified, weighing with the immediate container 18 kg or over.
1604.11.40Prepared or preserved salmon, whole or in pieces, but not minced, other than in oil and in airtight containers.
1604.12.60Herrings prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces, but not minced, nesoi.
1605.30.10Lobster, prepared or preserved, not containing fish meat, nesoi.
1605.51.05Oysters, fish meat or prepared meals.
1605.51.40Smoked oysters.
1605.51.50Oysters, prepared or preserved, but not smoked.
1605.52.05Scallops, including queen scallops as containing fish meat; prepared meals.
1605.52.60Scallops, including queen scallops, prepared or preserved.
1605.53.05Mussels, containing fish meats or in prepared meals.
1605.53.60Mussels, prepared or preserved.
1605.54.05Cuttle fish and squid, as containing fish meat; prepared meals.
1605.54.60Cuttle fish and squid, prepared or preserved.
1605.55.05Octopus, as containing fish meat or prepared meals.
1605.55.60Octopus, prepared or preserved.
1605.56.05Products of clams, cockles, and arkshells containing fish meat; prepared meals.
1605.56.10Razor clams, in airtight containers, prepared or preserved, nesoi.
1605.56.15Boiled clams in immediate airtight containers, the contents of which do not exceed 680 g gross weight.
1605.56.20Clams, prepared or preserved, excluding boiled clams, in immediate airtight containers, nesoi.
1605.56.30Clams, prepared or preserved, other than in airtight containers.
1605.56.60Cockles and arkshells, prepared or preserved.
1605.57.05Products of abalone containing fish meat; prepared meals of abalone.
1605.57.60Abalone, prepared or preserved.
1605.58.05Products of snails, other than sea snails, containing fish meat; prepared meals of snails other than sea snails.
1605.58.55Prepared or preserved snails, other than sea snails.
1605.59.05Products of molluscs nesoi containing fish meat; prepared meals of molluscs nesoi.
1605.59.60Molluscs nesoi, prepared or preserved.
1905.31.00Sweet biscuits.
2005.70.08Olives, green, not pitted, in saline, not ripe, in containers holding o/8 kg for repkg, not subject to add. US note 4 to Ch. 20.
2005.70.16Olives, green, in saline, place packed, stuffed, in containers holding n/o 1 kg, aggregate quantity n/o 2700 m ton/yr.
2005.70.23Olives, green, in saline, place packed, stuffed, not in containers holding 1 kg or less.
2005.70.25Olives, green, in a saline solution, pitted or stuffed, not place packed.
2007.99.15Currant and other berry jams, nesoi.
2007.99.20Apricot jam.
2007.99.25Cherry jam.
2007.99.30Guava jam.
2007.99.35Peach jam.
2007.99.40Pineapple jam.
2007.99.45Jams, nesoi.
2007.99.48Apple, quince and pear pastes and purees, being cooked preparations.
2007.99.50Guava and mango pastes and purees, being cooked preparations.
2007.99.55Papaya pastes and purees, being cooked preparations.
2007.99.60Strawberry pastes and purees, being cooked preparations.
2007.99.65Fruit pastes and purees, nesoi, and nut pastes and purees, being cooked preparations.
2007.99.70Currant and berry fruit jellies.
2009.89.20Pear juice, concentrated or not concentrated.
2009.89.40Prune juice, concentrated or not concentrated.
2009.89.80Juice of any single vegetable, other than tomato, concentrated or not concentrated.
2201.90.00Waters (incl. ice, snow and steam), ot/ than mineral waters or aerated waters, not cont. added sugar or other sweetening matter nor flavored.
2202.91.00Nonalcoholic beer.
2202.99.10Chocolate milk drink.
2202.99.36Juice of any single fruit or vegetable (except orange juice) fortified with vitamins or minerals, in nonconcentrated form.
2202.99.37Fruit or vegetable juices, fortified with vitamins or minerals, mixtures of juices in non-concentrated form.
2204.10.00Sparkling wine, made from grapes.
2204.21.20Effervescent grape wine, in containers holding 2 liters or less.
2204.21.30Tokay wine (not carbonated) not over 14% alcohol, in containers not over 2 liters.
2204.21.50Wine other than Tokay (not carbonated), not over 14% alcohol, in containers not over 2 liters.
2204.21.60``Marsala'' wine, over 14% vol. alcohol, in containers holding 2 liters or less.
2204.21.80Grape wine, other than ``Marsala``, not sparkling or effervescent, over 14% vol. alcohol, in containers holding 2 liters or less.
2204.22.20Wine of fresh grapes, other than sparkling wine, of an alcoholic strength by volume <=14% in containers holding over 2 liters but not over 4 liters.
2204.22.40Wine of fresh grapes, other than sparkling wine, of an alcoholic strength by volume >14% in containers holding over 2 liters but not over 4 liters.
2204.22.60Wine of fresh grapes, other than sparkling wine, of an alcoholic strength by volume <=14% in containers holding over 4 liters but not over 10 liters.
2204.22.80Wine of fresh grapes, other than sparkling wine, of an alcoholic strength by volume >14% in containers holding over 4 liters but not over 10 liters.
2204.29.61Wine of fresh grapes, other than sparkling wine, of an alcoholic strength by volume <=14% in containers holding >10 liters.
2204.29.81Wine of fresh grapes, other than sparkling wine, of an alcoholic strength by volume >14% in containers holding >10 liters.
2204.30.00Grape must, nesoi, in fermentation or with fermentation arrested otherwise than by addition of alcohol.
2208.20.20Grape brandy, excluding pisco and singani, in containers not over 4 liters, not over $2.38/liter.
2208.20.30Grape brandy, excluding pisco and singani, in containers not over 4 liters, valued over $2.38 to $3.43/ liter.
2208.20.40Grape brandy, excluding pisco and singani, in containers not over 4 liters, valued over $3.43/liter.
2208.20.50Grape brandy, excluding pisco and singani, in containers over 4 liters, not over $2.38/liter.
2208.20.60Grape brandy, excluding pisco and singani, in containers over 4 liters, over $2.38/liter.
2208.70.00Liqueurs and cordials.
3301.12.00Essential oils of orange.
3301.13.00Essential oils of lemon.
3301.19.10Essential oils of grapefruit.
3301.19.51Essential oils of citrus fruit, other, nesoi.
3301.24.00Essential oils of peppermint (Mentha piperita).
3301.25.00Essential oils of mints, other than peppermint.
3301.29.10Essential oils of eucalyptus.
3301.29.20Essential oils of orris.
3301.29.51Essential oils other than those of citrus fruit, other, nesoi.
3301.30.00Resinoids.
3301.90.10Extracted oleoresins consisting essentially of nonvolatile components of the natural raw plant.
3301.90.50Concentrates of essential oils; terpenic by-product of the deterpenation of essential oils; aqueous distillates & solutions of essential oils.
4202.21.90Handbags, with or without shoulder strap or without handle, with outer surface of leather, composition or patent leather, nesoi, over $20 ea.
4417.00.80Wooden tools, tool bodies, tool handles, broom or brush bodies and handles nesoi; wooden boot or shoe lasts and trees.
4807.00.92Composite cloth-lined or reinforced paper, not surface-coated or impregnated, in rolls or sheets.
4809.90.40Simplex decalcomania paper in rolls over 36 cm wide or in rectangular sheets over 36 cm on side(s).
4810.14.19Paper and paperboard for graphic use nesoi, coated w/inorganic, n/o 150g/m2, n/o 10% fiber by mechanical/chemi- process, certain size sheets.
4901.10.00Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter in single sheets, whether or not folded.
4908.10.00Transfers (decalcomanias), vitrifiable.
4911.91.20Lithographs on paper or paperboard, not over 0.51 mm in thickness, printed not over 20 years at time of importation.
4911.91.30Lithographs on paper or paperboard, over 0.51 mm in thickness, printed not over 20 years at time of importation.
4911.91.40Pictures, designs and photographs, excluding lithographs on paper or paperboard, printed not over 20 years at time of importation.
5205.31.00Multiple or cabled cotton yarn, 85% or more cotton by weight, of uncombed fibers, n/o 14 nm per single yarn, not put up for retail sale.
5206.32.00Multiple or cabled cotton yarn, <85% cotton by weight, of uncombed fibers, over 14 but n/o 43 nm/single yarn, not put up for retail sale.
5208.13.00Unbleached 3- or 4-thread twill fabrics of cotton, incl. cross twill, containing 85% or more of cotton by weight, weighing not over 200 g/m2.
5402.11.30Single high tenacity yarn of aramids, not put up for retail sale.
5402.11.60Multiple (folded) or cabled high tenacity yarn (except sewing thread) of aramids, not put up for retail sale.
5402.20.30Single high tenacity yarn of polyesters, not put up for retail sale.
5503.20.00Synthetic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, of polyesters.
5605.00.90Metalized textile yarn nesoi, of man-made monofilament or strip or the like, other than ungimped or w/twist of <5 turns per meter.
5609.00.10Articles of yarn, strip, twine, cordage, rope or cables nesoi, of cotton.
5609.00.20Articles of yarn, strip, twine, cordage, rope or cables nesoi, of vegetable fibers except cotton.
5609.00.30Articles of yarn, strip, twine, cordage, rope or cables nesoi, of man-made fibers.
5609.00.40Articles of yarn, strip or the like of man-made monofilaments, twine, cordage, rope or cables, nesoi.
5701.10.16Carpets & other textile floor coverings, hand-knotted or hand-inserted, w/ov 50% by weight of the pile of fine animal hair, nesoi.
5701.10.40Carpets and other textile floor coverings, of wool or fine animal hair, hand-hooked (tufts were inserted and knotted by hand or hand tool).
5701.10.90Carpets and other textile floor coverings, of wool or fine animal hair, not hand-hooked, not hand knotted during weaving.
5702.10.90``Kelem``, ``Schumacks``, ``Karamanie'' and similar hand-woven rugs, other than certified hand-loomed and folklore products.
5702.41.20Carpets and other textile floor coverings of pile construction, woven, not tufted or flocked, made up, of wool or fine animal hair, nesoi.
5702.42.10Wilton, velvet and like floor coverings of pile construction, woven, not tufted or flocked, made up, of man-made textile materials.
5702.92.10Hand-loomed carpet & other textile floor coverings, not of pile construction, woven, made up, of man-made textile materials, nesoi.
5703.10.20Hand-hooked carpets and other textile floor coverings, tufted, whether or not made up, of wool or fine animal hair.
5805.00.30Hand-woven tapestries nesoi and needle- worked tapestries, of cotton.
5805.00.40Hand-woven tapestries nesoi and needle- worked tapestries, other than of cotton, wool or fine animal hair.
5806.10.24Narrow woven pile fastener fabric tapes (other than goods of heading 5807) of man-made fibers.
5907.00.05Laminated fabrics specified in note 9 to sect. XI of HTS, of m-m fiber, for theatrical, ballet, & operatic scenery & properties, incl sets.
5911.10.10Printers' rubberized blankets of textile fabrics.
6110.11.00Sweaters, pullovers, sweatshirts, waistcoats (vests) and similar articles, knitted or crocheted, of wool.
6110.12.10Sweaters, pullovers, sweatshirts, waistcoats (vests) and similar articles, knitted or crocheted, of Kashmir goats, wholly of cashmere.
6110.20.20Sweaters, pullovers and similar articles, knitted or crocheted, of cotton, nesoi.
6110.30.30Sweaters, pullovers and similar articles, knitted or crocheted, of manmade fibers, nesoi.
6112.20.20Ski-suits, knitted or crocheted, of textile materials other than man-made fibers.
6202.99.15Rec perf outwear, women's/girls' anoraks, wind-breakers & similar articles, not k/ c, tex mats (not wool, cotton or mmf), cont <70% by wt of silk.
6202.99.80Women's/girls' anoraks, wind-breakers & similar articles, not k/c, of tex mats (not wool, cotton or mmf), cont <70% by wt of silk.
6203.11.60Men's or boys' suits of wool, not knitted or crocheted, nesoi, of wool yarn with average fiber diameter of 18.5 micron or less.
6203.11.90Men's or boys' suits of wool or fine animal hair, not knitted or crocheted, nesoi.
6203.19.30Men's or boys' suits, of artificial fibers, nesoi, not knitted or crocheted.
6203.19.90Men's or boys' suits, of textile mats (except wool, cotton or mmf), containing under 70% by weight of silk or silk waste, not knit or croch.
6208.21.00Women's or girls' nightdresses and pajamas, not knitted or crocheted, of cotton.
6211.12.40Women's or girls' swimwear, of textile materials (except mmf), containing 70% or more by weight of silk or silk waste, not knit or crocheted.
6211.12.80Women's or girls' swimwear, of textile materials (except mmf), containing under 70% by weight of silk or silk waste, not knit or crocheted.
6301.30.00Blankets (other than electric blankets) and traveling rugs, of cotton.
6301.90.00Blankets and traveling rugs, nesoi.
6302.21.50Bed linen, not knit or crocheted, printed, of cotton, cont any embroidery, lace, braid, edging, trimming, piping or applique work, n/napped.
6302.21.90Bed linen, not knit or croc, printed, of cotton, not cont any embroidery, lace, braid, edging, trimming, piping or applique work, not napped.
6802.10.00Tiles/cubes/similar arts. of natural stone, enclosable in a sq. w/a side less than 7 cm; artificially colored granules, chippings & powder.
6802.91.20Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, of travertine, dressed or polished but not further worked, nesoi.
6802.91.25Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, of travertine, further worked than dressed or polished, nesoi.
6802.93.00Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, of granite, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi.
6802.99.00Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, nesoi, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi.
6803.00.50Worked slate (other than roofing slate) and articles of slate or agglomerated slate.
6810.99.00Articles of cement (other than tiles, flagstones, bricks and similar arts.), of concrete or artificial stone, nesoi.
6907.21.30Glazed ceramic tiles having surface area <38.7cm2, surf area in sq w/side <7cm, of H2O absorp coeff by wt <=0.5%.
6912.00.35Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household table and kitchenware, in sets in which aggregate val. of arts./US note 6(b) n/o $38.
6912.00.39Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household table and kitchenware, in sets in which aggregate val. of arts./US note 6(b) o/$38.
6912.00.41Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) hsehld steins w/pewter lids, decanters, punch bowls, spoons & rests, salt/pepper sets, etc.
6912.00.44Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household mugs and steins w/o attached pewter lids.
6912.00.45Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household tabl/kitch.ware,n/in specif. sets, cups o/$5.25/dz, saucers o/$3/dz, etc.
6912.00.46Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household serviette rings.
6912.00.48Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household tableware and kitchenware, nesoi.
6912.00.50Ceramic (o/than porcelain or china) household articles and toilet articles (o/than table and kitchenware), nesoi.
6913.90.30Earthenware ornamental articles, having a reddish-colored body and a lustrous glaze of differing colors.
6913.90.50Ceramic (o/than porcelain, china or earthenware) ornamental articles, nesoi.
7013.28.10Stemware, o/than of pressed and toughened glass, o/than lead crystal, valued n/ over $0.30 each.
7013.41.10Glassware for table or kitchen purposes (o/than drinking glasses), of lead crystal, valued n/over $1 each.
7013.91.10Glassware for toilet/office/indoor decor. & similar purposes, of lead crystal, valued n/over $1 each.
7013.91.20Glassware for toilet/office/indoor decor. & similar purposes, of lead crystal, valued over $1 but n/over $3 each.
7016.90.10Paving blocks, slabs, bricks, squares, tiles & other arts. of pressed or molded glass, for building or construction purposes.
7017.10.60Laboratory, hygienic or pharmaceutical glassware, whether or not calibrated or graduated, of fused quartz or other fused silica, nesoi.
7019.19.05Fiberglass rubber reinforcing yarn, not color, of electrically nonconductive continuous filament 9 to 11 microns diam & impreg for adhesion to.
7019.19.15Glass fiber yarns, not colored, other than fiberglass rubber reinforcing yarn.
7019.19.28Glass fiber yarns, colored, other than fiberglass rubber reinforcing yarn.
7019.19.30Glass fiber chopped strands of a length more than 50 mm.
7110.21.00Palladium, unwrought or in powder form.
7114.11.60Articles of silver nesoi, for household, table or kitchen use, toilet and sanitary wares, including parts thereof.
7115.90.40Silver (including metal clad with silver) articles (o/than jewelry or silversmiths' wares), nesoi.
7115.90.60Articles of precious metal (o/than gold or silver), including metal clad with precious metal, nesoi.
7202.11.10Ferromanganese containing by weight more than 2 percent but not more than 4 percent of carbon.
7202.11.50Ferromanganese containing by weight more than 4 percent of carbon.
7202.30.00Ferrosilicon manganese.
7202.49.10Ferrochromium containing by weight more than 3 percent but not more than 4 percent of carbon.
7202.49.50Ferrochromium containing by weight 3 percent or less of carbon.
7202.93.80Ferroniobium, nesoi.
7311.00.00Iron/steel, containers for compressed or liquefied gas.
7315.19.00Iron or steel, parts of articulated link chain.
7317.00.10Iron or steel, thumb tacks.
7317.00.20Iron or steel, nails, tacks, corrugated nails, staples & similar arts., not threaded, suitable for use in powder- actuated hand tools.
7317.00.55Iron or steel, nails, tacks, corrugated nails, staples & similar arts., of one piece construction, made of round wire, nesoi.
7317.00.65Iron or steel, nails, tacks, corrugated nails, staples & similar arts., of one piece construction, not made of round wire, nesoi.
7317.00.75Iron or steel, nails, tacks, corrugated nails, staples & similar arts., of two or more pieces, nesoi.
7319.90.90Iron or steel, knitting needles, bodkins, crochet hooks, embroidery stilettos and similar articles for use in the hand.
7408.21.00Copper-zinc base alloys (brass), wire.
7408.29.10Copper alloys (o/than brass, cupro-nickel or nickel-silver), wire, coated or plated with metal.
7411.22.00Copper-nickel base alloys (cupro-nickel) or copper-nickel-zinc base alloys (nickel-silver), tubes and pipes.
7418.10.00Copper & copper alloy table, kitchen, household articles & parts; pot scourers, scouring & polishing pads, gloves, etc.
7506.20.05Nickel alloy, foil, w/thickness not over 0.15 mm.
7907.00.10Zinc, household, table or kitchen use articles; zinc toilet and sanitary wares; zinc parts of all the foregoing.
7907.00.20Zinc, tubes or pipes and fittings for tubes or pipes.
7907.00.60Zinc, articles (o/than for household, table or kitchen use), nesoi.
8112.92.40Niobium (columbium), unwrought; niobium powders.
8112.92.50Rhenium, unwrought; rhenium powders.
8112.99.20Vanadium, nesoi, and articles thereof.
8201.40.60Axes, bill hooks and similar hewing tools (o/than machetes), and base metal parts thereof.
8203.20.20Base metal tweezers.
8203.20.40Slip joint pliers.
8203.20.60Pliers (including cutting pliers but not slip joint pliers), pincers and similar tools.
8203.30.00Metal cutting shears and similar tools, and base metal parts thereof.
8203.40.60Pipe cutters, bolt cutters, perforating punches and similar tools, nesoi, and base metal parts thereof.
8205.40.00Screwdrivers and base metal parts thereof.
8211.10.00Sets of assorted knives w/cutting blades serrated or not (including pruning knives).
8211.91.25Table knives w/fixed blades, w/stain. steel handles cont. Ni or ov 10% by wt of Mn, nesoi.
8211.91.30Table knives w/fixed blades, w/stain. steel handles, nesoi, not ov 25.9 cm in overall length & val less than 25 cents each.
8211.91.40Table knives w/fixed blades, w/stain. steel handles, nesoi.
8211.91.80Table knives w/fixed blades, w/handles other than of silver-plate, stainless steel, rubber or plastics.
8211.92.40Knives w/fixed blades (o/than table or kitchen and butcher knives), with rubber or plastic handles.
8211.92.60Hunting knives w/fixed blades, with wood handles.
8211.92.90Knives w/fixed blades (o/than table knives, other knives w/rubb./plast. handles, or hunting knives w/wood handles).
8211.93.00Knives having other than fixed blades.
8211.94.50Base metal blades for knives having other than fixed blades.
8214.90.30Butchers' or kitchen cleavers with their handles, nesoi, and base metal parts thereof.
8214.90.60Butchers' or kitchen chopping or mincing knives (o/than cleavers w/their handles), and base metal parts thereof.
8214.90.90Articles of cutlery, nesoi, and base metal parts of cutlery, nesoi.
8306.30.00Base metal photograph, picture or similar frames; base metal mirrors; base metal parts thereof.
8429.52.10Self-propelled backhoes, shovels, clamshells and draglines with a 360 degree revolving superstructure.
8429.52.50Self-propelled machinery with a 360 degree revolving superstructure, other than backhoes, shovels, clamshells and draglines.
8467.19.10Tools for working in the hand, pneumatic, other than rotary type, suitable for metal working.
8467.19.50Tools for working in the hand, pneumatic, other than rotary type, other than suitable for metal working.
8467.29.00Electromechanical tools for working in the hand, other than drills or saws, with self-contained electric motor.
8468.80.10Machinery and apparatus, hand-directed or -controlled, used for soldering, brazing or welding, not gas-operated.
8468.90.10Parts of hand-directed or -controlled machinery, apparatus and appliances used for soldering, brazing, welding or tempering.
8505.11.00Permanent magnets and articles intended to become permanent magnets after magnetization, of metal.
8514.20.40Industrial or laboratory microwave ovens for making hot drinks or for cooking or heating food.
8539.10.00Sealed beam lamp units.
8711.40.30Motorcycles (incl. mopeds) and cycles, fitted w/recip. internal-combustion piston engine w/capacity o/500 cc but n/ o 700 cc.
8714.10.00Pts. & access. for motorcycles (including mopeds).
8714.93.05Pts. & access. for bicycles & o/cycles, aluminum alloy hubs, w/hollow axle and lever-operated quick release mechanism.
8714.93.15Pts. & access. for bicycles & o/cycles, 3- speed hubs nesoi.
8714.93.35Pts. & access. for bicycles & o/cycles, non-variable speed hubs, nesoi.
8714.93.70Pts. & access. for bicycles & o/cycles, free-wheel sprocket-wheels.
9001.90.50Prisms, unmounted.
9001.90.80Half-tone screens designed for use in engraving or photographic processes, unmounted.
9002.11.40Projection lenses, mounted, and parts and accessories therefor, for cameras, projectors or photographic enlargers or reducers.
9002.11.60Mounted objective lenses for use in closed circuit television cameras, separately imported, w/or w/o attached elec. connectors or motors.
9002.11.90Objective lenses and parts & access. thereof, for cameras, projectors, or photographic enlargers or reducers, except projection, nesoi.
9002.90.85Mounted lenses, n/obj., for use in closed circuit television cameras, separately imported, w/or w/o attached elec. connectors or motors.
9005.10.00Binoculars.
9006.61.00Photographic discharge lamp (``electronic'') flashlight apparatus.
9013.10.10Telescopic sights for rifles not designed for use with infrared light.
9013.10.50Other telescopic sights for arms other than rifles; periscopes.
9015.30.80Levels, other than electrical.
9016.00.20Electrical balances of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, with or without weights, and parts and accessories thereof.
9016.00.40Jewelers' balances (nonelectrical) of a sensitivity of 5 cg or better, with or without weights, and parts and accessories thereof.
9030.20.10Oscilloscopes and oscillographs, nesoi.
9105.29.10Wall clocks nesoi, not electrically operated, mvmt measuring n/o 50 mm, not designed or constr. to operate over 47 hrs without rewinding.
9105.29.30Wall clocks nesoi, not electrically operated, mvmt measuring n/o 50 mm, ov 1 jewel, constructed/designed to operate ov 47 hrs w/o rewinding.
9105.29.40Wall clocks nesoi, not electrically operated, movement measuring over 50 mm in width or diameter, valued not over $5 each.
9105.29.50Wall clocks nesoi, not electrically operated, movement measuring over 50 mm in width or diameter, valued over $5 each.
9106.10.00Time registers; time recorders.
9109.90.20Clock movements, complete and assembled, not electrically operated, measuring not over 50 mm in width or diameter.
9110.90.40Incomplete clock movements consisting of 2 or more pieces or parts fastened or joined together.
9603.30.40Artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics, valued o/5 cents but n/o 10 cents each.
9603.30.60Artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics, valued o/10 cents each.

In addition to the above list, which applies to goods originating in any of the 28 member states of the EU, the U.S. is also proposing additional tariffs on certain aircraft and aircraft parts from the following four member States of the European Union: France, Germany, Spain or the United Kingdom.

Background

A. Dispute Settlement Proceedings

On October 6, 2004, the United States requested WTO dispute settlement consultations with the European Communities (now the EU), France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom (certain member States) concerning certain subsidies granted by the EU and certain member States to the EU large civil aircraft domestic industry, on the basis that the subsidies appeared to be inconsistent with their obligations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (GATT 1994) and the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM Agreement).

Further information on this dispute--EC and Certain member States-- Measures Affecting Trade in Large Civil Aircraft (DS316), including the original panel and appellate reports and the compliance panel and appellate reports adopted by the DSB, is publicly available on the WTO website, including at the following page: https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dispu_e/cases_e/ds316_e.htm.

On May 31, 2005, the United States requested the establishment of a dispute settlement panel. USTR provided notice of the establishment of the panel and invited comments from the public concerning the issues raised in the dispute. See 70 FR 35496.

In May 2011, a WTO panel report, as amended by an Appellate Body report, confirmed that EU and certain member State subsidies on the manufacture of large civil aircraft breached the EU's obligations under the SCM Agreement. The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) adopted the reports on June 1, 2011, and recommended that the EU and certain member States bring the WTO-inconsistent measures into compliance with WTO rules. The EU and certain member States had until December 1, 2011, to bring the measures into compliance.

On December 1, 2011, the EU asserted that it had implemented the DSB recommendations. The United States did not agree, and requested authorization from the DSB to impose countermeasures commensurate with the adverse effects of the WTO-inconsistent measures. The EU referred the matter to arbitration to assess the proper level of any countermeasures.

In early 2012, the United States and the EU entered into a procedural agreement pursuant to which the arbitration would be suspended until after WTO compliance panel and any appellate proceedings determined whether the EU had implemented the DSB recommendations. On May 28, 2018, the DSB adopted compliance panel and Appellate Body reports confirming that launch aid to the Airbus A380 and A350 XWB aircraft continued to cause WTO-inconsistent adverse effects to U.S. interests.

At the request of the United States, and in accordance with the procedural agreement, on July 13, 2018, the WTO Arbitrator resumed its work in determining the level of countermeasures to be authorized as a result of the WTO inconsistencies. USTR anticipates that the WTO Arbitrator will issue its report regarding the level of countermeasures in the summer of 2019.

B. Initiation of Investigation

Section 302(b) of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended, authorizes the Trade Representative to initiate an investigation to determine whether conduct is actionable under section 301 of the Trade Act. Actionable conduct under section 301(a) includes, inter alia, the denial of rights of the United States under any trade agreement.

In order to enforce U.S. WTO rights in connection with the Large Civil Aircraft dispute, the Trade Representative is initiating a section 301 investigation of the subsidies provided by the EU and certain member States on the manufacture of large civil aircraft. Prior to initiation, USTR consulted with the interagency Section 301 Committee and the appropriate advisory committee.

Section 303 of the Trade Act calls for the Trade Representative to request consultations with the foreign country subject to the investigation. USTR requested consultations with the EU and certain member States upon the initiation of the dispute settlement proceedings in October 2004. USTR again requested consultations with the EU and certain member States in April 2012, upon initiation of the WTO compliance proceeding. Neither set of consultations resolved the dispute. USTR remains open to discussing these matters with the EU and certain member States.

C. Proposed Determinations

The Trade Representative proposes to determine, in accordance with the outcome of the WTO dispute settlement proceedings, that the EU and certain member States have breached their WTO obligations by providing subsidies on the manufacture of large civil aircraft and by failing to withdraw the subsidies or remove their adverse effects. In particular, under section 301(a), section 304(a)(1)(A), and section 306(b)(2), the Trade Representative proposes to determine that the EU and certain member States have denied U.S. rights under the WTO Agreement, and in particular, under Articles 5 and 6.3 of the SCM Agreement, and have failed to comply with the DSB recommendations to bring the WTO- inconsistent subsidies into compliance with WTO obligations.

Upon determining that U.S. rights under a trade agreement are being denied, section 301(a) provides that the Trade Representative shall take all appropriate and feasible action authorized under section 301(c), subject to the specific direction, if any, of the President regarding such action, and all other appropriate and feasible action within the power of the President that the President may direct the Trade Representative to take to enforce such rights. Pursuant to sections 301(a), 301(c), 304(a)(1)(B), and 306(b)(2), the Trade Representative proposes that appropriate action would include the imposition of additional ad valorem duties of up to 100 percent on products of the EU or certain member States, to be drawn from the preliminary list of HTS numbers in the attached Annex. In accordance with section 306(b)(2) of the Trade Act, the Annex includes reciprocal goods of the affected industry. The final list of products subject to increased duties will take into account the report of the Arbitrator on the appropriate level of countermeasures to be authorized by the WTO.

The list contains 317 tariff subheadings and 9 Harmonized Tariff Schedule statistical reporting numbers being considered for additional duties. The value of the list is approximately $21 billion in terms of the estimated import trade value for calendar year 2018. The products listed in Section 1 of the Annex are being considered for additional duties if they are the product of Germany, France, the United Kingdom, or Spain. The products listed in Section 2 of the Annex are being considered for additional duties if they are the product of any of the 28 member States of the EU.

D. Request for Public Comments

In accordance with sections 304(b) and 306(c), USTR invites comments from interested persons with respect to the proposed determination and proposed action. USTR invites comments with respect to any aspect of the proposed action, including:

The specific products to be subject to increased duties, including whether products listed in the Annex should be retained or removed, or whether products not currently on the list should be added.

The level of the increase, if any, in the rate of duty.

The appropriate aggregate level of trade to be covered by additional duties.

Whether increased duties on particular products might have an adverse effect upon U.S. stakeholders, including small businesses and consumers.

Monday, April 15, 2019, is Patriots' Day in Massachusetts

Monday, April 15, 2019, is Patriots' (plural possessive) Day in Massachusetts and Patriot's (singular possessive) Day in Maine. State and local government offices in Massachusetts and Maine will be closed, as will some businesses, especially those, such as Agathon Associates, located in downtown Boston in ear-shot of the victory shouts at the finish line.

Check out this video WE WOOL WIN from the Woolmark Company highlighting why for many marathon runners wool is the fiber of choice.

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"Listen, my children and you shall hear
of the midnight ride of Paul Revere,
On the eighteenth of April, in Seventy-five."

New England’s original "On the Road" man looms large in these parts --life-sized, in fact, in bronze, in Boston's North End. There, as well, you'll find his house preserved, just as his ride is preserved in the Longfellow poem.

"You know the rest. In the books you have read,
How the British Regulars fired and fled--"

And that morning of April 19 officially marks the beginning of the American War of Independence. In Massachusetts and Maine (part of Massachusetts until 1820, when, under the "Missouri Compromise" Maine, a free State was admitted to the Union, paired with Missouri, a slave State) we celebrate it as Patriots'/Patriot's Day, and, like Revere, take to the road – a renowned twenty-six miles of road from Hopkinton to Boston.

At the original Marathon, 26 miles from Athens, Greece, free, Democratic, Western civilization faced and defeated the forces of absolutism. It is a battle that has been fought many times. It will be fought many more times. Freedom must always be prepared to fight just to be free.

On September 11, 2001, after the unprovoked terrorists' attacks on thousands of innocent, unsuspecting civilians, President George W. Bush spoke of why we were attacked, and why we shall prevail: "America was targeted for attack because we're the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world. And no one will keep that light from shining."

Our patriot forefathers (and every America is a Son of Liberty, regardless of when your people came here) knew that freedom is worth fighting for. This Patriots' Day let's reflect on the cause of freedom, and thank the brave American men and women who, in every war from the Revolution to our current engagements in the Near and Middle East, have made it possible for us to enjoy this April 15th as a free people.