USTR Announces Katherine White as Chief Textiles and Apparel Negotiator

April 22, 2024, the Office of the U.S. Trade Reprentative announced that Katherine White will serve as USTR’s Chief Textiles and Apparel Negotiator. Ms. White joins USTR from the House Ways and Means Committee in the United States Congress where she served as International Trade Policy Advisor. In this capacity, she advised Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-MA) and Democratic Members of the Committee on trade policy matters, shaped U.S. trade laws, and participated in the negotiation, implementation, and enforcement of U.S. trade agreements, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). She has worked closely with the textile and apparel industry during the development of trade legislation.

Frequently Asked Questions - Guidance on Marking of Goods of Hong Kong – Executive Order 13936

Every article of foreign origin or its container imported into the Customs territory of the United States shall be marked in a conspicuous place and in such manner as to indicate to the ultimate purchaser in the United States the English name of the country of origin of the article (19 U.S.C. §1304 and 19 CFR 134.11).

Imported goods that are produced in Hong Kong that are entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption into the United States after the transition period must be marked to indicate that their origin is “China” for purposes of 19 U.S.C. § 1304.

Goods that are not marked properly after the transition period may be brought into a Foreign Trade Zone to be properly marked under a permit to manipulate issued by the Port Director.

Similarly, goods which are improperly or falsely marked may be brought into an FTZ under a permit to manipulate to correct or remove such marking so as to comply with the laws and regulations (19 CFR 134.13(b)).

The change in marking requirements does not affect country of origin determinations for purposes of assessing ordinary duties under Chapters 1-97 of the HTSUS or temporary or additional duties under Chapter 99 of the HTSUS. Therefore, goods that are products of Hong Kong should continue to report International Organization for Standardization (ISO) country code “HK” as the country of origin when required.

RRead more HERE.

Initiation of Section 301 Investigation: China's Acts, Policies, and Practices Targeting the Maritime, Logistics, and Shipbuilding Sectors for Dominance

On April 22, 20214, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative published in the Federal Register (89 FR 29424 Initiation of Section 301 Investigation: China's Acts, Policies, and Practices Targeting the Maritime, Logistics, and Shipbuilding Sectors for Dominance.

On March 12, 2024, five labor unions filed a Section 301 petition regarding the acts, policies, and practices of China to dominate the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sector. The petition was filed pursuant to section 302(a)(1) of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (Trade Act) (19 U.S.C. 2412(a)(1)), requesting action pursuant to Section 301(b) (19 U.S.C. 2411(b)).

The five petitioners are the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union, AFL-CIO CLC (USW), the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers, AFL-CIO/CLC (IBB), the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), and the Maritime Trades Department of the AFL-CIO (MTD).

Polyester Textured Yarn from India was not Sold in the United States at Less than Normal Value in 2022

On April 18, 2024, the International Trade Administration published in the Federal Register (89 FR 27713 Polyester Textured Yarn From India: Final Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Review; 2022.

The U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) determines that polyester textured yarn (yarn) from India was not sold in the United States at less than normal value (NV) during the period of review (POR) January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022.

Production Authority Not Approved; Foreign-Trade Zone 38; Teijin Carbon Fibers, Inc.

On April 17, 20245, the Foreign-Trade Zone Board published in the Federal Register (89 FR 27413) Production Authority Not Approved; Foreign-Trade Zone 38; Teijin Carbon Fibers, Inc.; (Carbon Fiber); Greenwood, South Carolina.

The Board adopted the findings and recommendations of the examiner's report, and found that the requirements of the FTZ Act and the Board's regulations have not been satisfied.

Therefore, the Board did not approve the application, as amended, requesting to remove the restriction requiring that all foreign status 24,000 tow PAN fiber admitted for production activity be re-exported (entry for U.S. consumption was not authorized) within FTZ 38 at the facility of Teijin Carbon Fibers, Inc., located in Greenwood, South Carolina, as described in the application and Federal Register notice.

Men's Uniform Dress Coat Contract Awarded

April 19, 2024, Fechheimer Brothers Co., Cincinnati, Ohio, has been awarded a maximum $16,355,700 modification (P00012) exercising the third one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-21-D-1466) with four one-year option periods for men's uniform dress coats. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Location of performance is Illinois, with an April 26, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Maternity Blouse and Trouser Contract Awarded

April 18, 2024, American Apparel Inc.,* Selma, Alabama, has been awarded a maximum $14,060,405 modification (P00009) exercising the first one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-23-D-0047) with four one-year option periods for maternity blouses and trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is April 24, 2025. Using military service is Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

*Small Business

Trouser Contract Awarded

April 18, 2024, Pentaq Manufacturing Corp.,** Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $22,278,375 modification (P00031) exercising the fourth one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-20-D-1258) with four one-year option periods for various types of trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is April 20, 2025. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Awarded April 16, 2024)

**Small business in historically underutilized business zones

Men’s Short Sleeve Khaki Shirt Contract Awarded

April 18, 2024, Bernard Cap LLC,* Hialeah, Florida, has been awarded a maximum $35,147,686 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for men’s short sleeve khaki shirts. This was a competitive acquisition with eleven responses received. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is April 15, 2029. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2029 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0048). (Awarded April 16, 2024)

*Small Business

Rhode Island Company Wins Air Force and Army Beret Contract

April 17, 2024, Hyman Brickle & Son Inc.,* Woonsocket, Rhode Island, has been awarded a maximum $12,487,118 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for men’s berets. This was a competitive acquisition with three responses received. This is a four-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is April 16, 2028. Using military services are Air Force and Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2028 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0050).

Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber From the People’s Republic of China, India, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan: Continuation of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Orders

On April 11, 2024, the International Trade Administration published in the Federal Register (89 FR 25563) [A–570–060, A–533–875, A–580–893, A–583–860, C–570–061, C–533–876] Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber From the People’s Republic of China, India, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan: Continuation of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Orders

Fischer Sports Recalls Junior Ski Boots Due to Fall Hazard

This recall involves RC4 50, RC4 60, and RC4 65 Junior Ski Boots in sizes 21.5 to 27.5. The RC4 50 and RC4 60 were sold in Rhino Grey and Snow colors. The RC4 65 was sold in yellow. “Fischer” is printed on the lower shell on each boot, and the specific model and name is printed on the outside of the upper cuff, between the two top buckles. The size of the boot is stamped on the sole.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled RC4 Junior Ski Boots and contact Fischer Sports for instructions on how to receive a refund, a free replacement, or a free repair.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of an incident of the ski boot cuff rotated. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At: Ski gear stores nationwide and online at https://www.fischersports.com/us_en/ and other websites from October 2022 through February 2024 for between $200 and $275.

Manufacturer(s): Fischer Sports US, of Auburn, New Hampshire

Importer(s): Fischer Sports US, of Auburn, New Hampshire

Manufactured In: Romania

Recall number: 24-191

More information and photos HERE.

Touchat Area Rugs Recalled Due to Fire Hazard; Violation of Federal Flammability Regulations; Sold Exclusively on Amazon.com by Touchat

This recall involves Touchat Large Fuzzy Area Rugs. The rectangular rugs are gray and measure 8 feet x 10 feet. “100% Polyester” and “Made in China” are printed on a label on the underside of the product.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled rugs immediately and contact Touchat for a full refund. Consumers will be asked to destroy the product by cutting it in half, and to provide proof of destruction by sending a photo of the cut product to jurysun@outlook.com to receive a full refund. Touchat is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Amazon.com from October 2023 through November 2023 for between $80 and $113.

Retailer: Jian De Shi Jia Jin Chu Kou You Xian Gong Si DBA Touchat, of China

Manufactured In: China

Recall number: 24-195

More information and photos HERE.

Red Land Cotton Recalls Quilts and Shams Due to Laceration Hazard

This recall involves Red Land Cotton quilts and quilted shams. The Classic quilts come in white, natural, ticking stripe, blue, or gray, in all sizes: twin, full/queen, and king/California king sizes. The Classic quilted euro shams come in white, natural and ticking stripe. King and Standard shams are white, natural, blue, gray and ticking stripe. Baby quilts come in white, natural and charcoal ticking print.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled quilts and quilt shams and visit www.redlandcotton.com/pages/voluntary-quilt-recall for instructions on how to participate in the recall. Red Land Cotton will be offering a replacement product (of the same value) or a refund in the form of a store credit or a refund check. Consumers will be asked to provide proof of purchase, in the way of photos of the recalled products, a purchase receipt, or other form of payment documentation. Red Land Cotton is notifying all known consumers who purchased the recalled products.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of consumers being jabbed by a sharp metal needle from the product, including one breaking the skin on a consumer’s hand.

Sold At: Red Land Cotton store and online at redlandcotton.com and amazon.com from May 2023 through February 2024 for between $75 and $310.

Manufacturer(s): Red Land Cotton, Moulton, Alabama

Manufactured In: United States

Recall number: 24-193

More information and photos HERE.

Trouser Contract Awarded

April 12, 2024, American Polymers LLC,** doing business as AMPO USA, Vernon, California, has been awarded a maximum $30,750,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for trousers. This was a competitive acquisition with four responses received. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. Location of performance is New Jersey, with an April 11, 2029, ordering period end date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2029 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0049).

Ballistic Combat Shirt Contract

April 11, 2024, Bethel Industries Inc.,* Jersey City, New Jersey (W91CRB-24-D-0006); Puerto Rico Industries for the Blind Corp., Mayaguez, Puerto Rico (W91CRB-24-D-0007); Point Blank Enterprises Inc., Pompano Beach, Florida (W91CRB-24-D-0008); Bluewater Defense Inc.,* Corozal, Puerto Rico (W91CRB-24-D-0009); and Slate Solutions LLC,* Sunrise, Florida (W91CRB-24-D-0010), will compete for each order of the $628,415,825 hybrid (cost-plus-fixed-fee and firm-fixed-price) contract for the Ballistic Combat Shirt. Bids were solicited via the internet with 14 received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of April 9, 2033. Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

*Small Business

Men's Dress Trouser Contract Awarded

April 5, 2024, Bernard Cap LLC,* Hialeah, Florida, has been awarded a maximum $8,070,516 modification (P00005) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1544) with four one-year option periods for men’s dress trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is April 11, 2025. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

*Small Business

Flight Deck Safety Boot Contract Awarded

April 5, 2024, Belleville Shoe Manufacturing Co.,* Belleville, Illinois, has been awarded a maximum $10,334,376 modification (P00008) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1541) with two one-year option periods for general purpose and flight deck safety boots. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Locations of performance are Missouri and Arkansas, with an April 6, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

*Small Business

AD/CVD Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber From China, India, South Korea, and Taiwan

On April 5, 2024, the U.S. International Trade Commmission published in the Federal Register (89 FR 24033) [Investigation Nos. 701–TA–579–580 and 731–TA–1369–1372 (Review)] Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber From China, India, South Korea, and Taiwan. On the basis of the record developed in the subject five-year reviews, the United States International Trade Commission ("Commission") determines, pursuant to the Tariff Act of 1930 ("the Act"), that revocation of the countervailing duty orders on fine denier polyester staple fiber ("fine denier PSF") from China and India and the antidumping duty orders on fine denier PSF from China, India, South Korea, and Taiwan would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury to an industry in the United States within a reasonably foreseeable time.

Hot Weather Boot Contract Awarded

April 4, 2024, McRae Industries,* Mt. Gilead, North Carolina, has been awarded a maximum $31,444,644 fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for hot weather boots. This was a competitive acquisition with two responses received. This is a four-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is March 27, 2028. Using military service is Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2028 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0044).

*Small Business

Lovey & Grink Recalls Children’s Pajamas Due to Burn Hazard; Violation of Federal Flammability Regulations for Children’s Sleepwear

This recall involves four types of children’s sleepwear garments: girl’s two-piece pajama sets, girl’s nightgowns, boy’s two-piece pajama sets, and unisex two-piece pajama sets. They were sold in the following prints: Sushi, S’mores, Heart Pops, Rainbow Sky, Popcorn, Puppy Love, Race Car, Sports, Beach Day, Summer Treats, Pasta, Cherry Berry, Love Potion, With the Band, Recycle, Halloween, Birthday Treats, Build-a-Block, Blue Gummy Bears, Gingerbread, Helicopters, Hanukkah Penguins, Rainbow Hearts and Vacation Vibes. The pajama sets were sold in sizes 12 Months to 9/10. The size, “Made In Indonesia”, “RN64664”, “48% Cotton/47% Modal/5% Spandex”, and washing instructions are printed on the neck label. No side seam label is found on the product.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled pajamas away from children, stop using them, and contact Lovey & Grink for a full refund. Consumers who purchased the product will be asked to destroy the garments by cutting them in half and disposing of them in accordance with local and state recycling laws. Consumers must send a photo of the destroyed garment to recall@loveyandgrink.com. Upon receipt of the photo, consumers will be issued a full refund of the purchase price.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Five Loaves Two Fish (Coronado, California), Sassy Pants (Stockton, California), Wards Terrilee (Closter, N.J.), Little Luna (New York), Groove (Westport, Connecticut), Bean 2 Tween (Southampton, N.Y.), Reform Kids (Cresskill, N.J,), Stella Mara (Englewood, N.J.), State of Kid (Miami, Florida), and Blue Jean Baby (Woodbury, N.Y.) and online at loveyandgrink.com, Saks.com, Bloomingdales.com and Maisonette.com from September 2022 through January 2024 for between $38 and $44.

Importer(s): Koala Tree Enterprises, DBA Lovey & Grink, of Los Angeles, California

Manufactured In: Indonesia

Recall number: 24-183

More information and photos HERE.

Mohawk FTZ Application Denided

On April 1, 2024, the Foreign-Trade Zone Board published in the Federal Register (89 FR 22372) Production Activity Not Authorized; Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) 26; Mohawk Carpet Distribution, LLC; (Machine-Made Woven and Tufted Rugs of Polypropylene); Calhoun and Sugar Valley, Georgia

Too Good to Be True as CBP Seizes Multiple Counterfeit Products Valued at Over $100,000

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Rochester Port of Entry seized a variety of designer items for bearing counterfeit trademarks.

Over the past month and a half, CBP officers at the port of Rochester inspected several shipments that contained multiple “designer” handbags, wallets, clothing, and shoes, amongst other items. After a thorough examination of the merchandise, all the items were determined to be inauthentic and were seized for bearing counterfeit trademarks. Had these items been genuine, the total Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) value would have been approximately $105,202 dollars.

More information HERE.

Federal Prison Industries Win Extreme Cold/Wet Weather Jacket Contract

March 26, 2024, Federal Prison Industries,** doing business as UNICOR, Washington, D.C., has been awarded a maximum $16,513,875 modification (P00002) exercising the first one‐year option period of a one‐year base contract (SPE1C1‐23‐D‐0017) with three one‐year option periods for extreme cold/wet weather jackets. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Location of performance is Kentucky, with a March 27, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Mandatory Source

Extreme Cold/Wet Weather Jacket Contract Awarded

March 26, 2024, Valley Apparel LLC,* Knoxville, Tennessee, has been awarded a maximum $17,121,825 modification (P00003) exercising the first one‐year option period of a one‐year base contract (SPE1C1‐23‐D‐0016) with three one‐year option periods for extreme cold/wet weather jackets. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is March 27, 2025. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

*Small Business

Air Force and Army Beret Contact Awarded to Rhode Island Company

March 25, 2024, Hyman Brickle & Son Inc.,* Woonsocket, Rhode Island, has been awarded a maximum $12,487,118 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for men’s berets. This was a competitive acquisition with three responses received. This is a four-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is March 24, 2028. Using military services are Air Force and Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2028 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0041).

*Small Business

Navy Footwear Contract Awarded

March 22, 2024, McRae Industries Inc.,* Mt. Gilead, North Carolina, has been awarded a maximum $14,615,478 modification (P00006) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1532) with two one-year option periods for general purpose and flight deck safety boots. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is March 22, 2025. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. *Small Business

Navy and Air Coast Apparel Contract Awarded

March 21, 2024, BestWork Industries for the Blind Inc.,** Cherry Hill, New Jersey, has been awarded a maximum $14,188,032 modification (P00010) exercising the second one‐year option period of a one‐year base contract (SPE1C1‐22‐D‐B124) with two one‐year option periods for fleece liners. This is a firm‐fixed‐price, indefinite‐delivery/indefinite‐quantity contract. The ordering period end date is March 23, 2025. Using customers are Navy and Coast Guard. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Mandatory Source

Army Jacket Contract Awarded

March 21, 2024, Blind Industries and Services of Maryland,** Baltimore, Maryland, has been awarded a maximum $16,881,000 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for physical fitness uniform jackets. This is a one-year base contract with two one-year option periods. Locations of performance are North Carolina and Virginia, with a March 20, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-B014).

**Mandatory Source

Court Ruling on "Parts" versus "Inputs"

In March 20, 2024, Customs Bulletin Vol. 58, No. 11 ( beginning on page 6) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit case RKW KLERKS INC., Plaintiff-Appellant v. UNITED STATES, DefendantAppellee is reported.

BACKGROUND: RKW imports two types of net wrap, marketed as “Top Net” and “Rondotex” (collectively, Netwraps). The Netwraps are synthetic fabrics used to wrap round bales of harvested crops released from baling machines such that the bales maintain their compressed structure and are easier to transport. The Netwraps are made up of highdensity polyethylene (HDPE) film layers that have been knit on a Raschel machine and wrapped around a cardboard core.

At issue in this case is the proper classification of the Netwraps in the HTSUS. Customs classified the Netwraps under HTSUS Chapter 60 under subheading 6005.39.00 as “warp knit fabric,” dutiable at the rate of 10% ad valorem.

After Customs’s initial classification, RKW filed a protest, which was deemed denied. RKW then appealed to the CIT, filing a motion for summary judgment. The government filed a cross-motion for summary judgment. In its motion, RKW contended that the Netwraps should instead be classified under Chapter 84, subheading 8433.90.50 as “parts” of harvesting machinery or alternatively subheading 8436.99.00 as “parts” of other agricultural machinery

The Court concluded the the Netwraps are a disposable input and not a part of round baling machines.

Short Supply Request: Polyester/Cotton/Nylon Double Face Jacquard Knitted Fabric&

SPECIFICATIONS: Certain Double-Knit Jacquard Fabric

HTS: 6006.33

Fabric Type: Polyester/Cotton/Nylon Double Face Jacquard Knitted Fabric

Fiber Content: 55% to 65% Polyester / 30% to 40% Cotton / 3% to 6% Nylon

Yarn Size:

• Face: 100% Polyester Filament yarn 100 to 200 Denier
• Tie: 100% Nylon 10 to 40 Denier
• Back: 100% Cotton 20/1 to 34/1

Fabric Weight:

• Metric: 200-340 GM2
• English: 5.8-10.03 ounces per square yard

Weave Type: Double Knit Jacquard

Fabric Width:

• Metric: 152-195 cm
• English: 59.8-76.8 inches

Finish: Yarn Dye of Various Color

Remarks: The yarn size designations describe a range of yarn specifications for yarn before knitting, dyeing and finishing of the fabric. They are intended as specifications to be followed by the mills in sourcing yarn used to produce the fabric. Dyeing, finishing, and knitting can alter the characteristic of the yarn as it appears in the finished fabric. This specification therefore includes yarns appearing in the finished fabric as finer or coarser than the designated yarn sizes provided that the variation occurs after processing of the greige yarn and production of the fabric. The specifications for the fabric apply to the fabric itself prior to cutting and sewing of the finished garment. Such processing may alter the measurements.

FTC Announces Tentative Agenda for March 21 Open Commission Meeting

Today, Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina M. Khan announced that an open meeting of the Commission will be held virtually on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The open meeting will commence at 11am ET and will begin with time for members of the public to address the Commission.

The following items will be on the tentative agenda for the March 21 Commission meeting:

Business Before the Commission:

Presentation on the Telemarketing Sales Rule Amendments:

Staff of the Division of Marketing Practices will give a presentation on the Commission’s finalization of an amendment to the Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR), prohibiting misrepresentations in business-to-business telemarketing calls and requiring more robust record-keeping, and the Commission’s decision to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking seeking to amend the TSR to apply its protections to inbound telemarketing calls selling technology support services. 

Supply Chain Report:

The Commission will discuss a report on the causes behind supply chain disruptions. The report will summarize FTC staff findings concerning how supply chain disruptions are affecting consumer goods suppliers and retailers, with a focus on whether disruptions disproportionately affect smaller retailers and other areas of competitive interest. The report stems from orders the FTC issued in late 2021 to nine large retailers, wholesalers, and consumer good suppliers.

At the start of the meeting, Chair Khan will offer brief remarks and will then invite members of the public to share feedback on the Commission’s work generally and bring relevant matters to the Commission’s attention. Members of the public must sign up for an opportunity to address the Commission virtually at the March 21 event.

Each commenter will be given two minutes to share their comments. Those who cannot participate during the event may submit written comments or a link to a prerecorded video through a webform. Speaker registration and comment submission will be available through Tuesday, March 19, 2023 at 8 pm ET.

A link to the event will be available on the day of the event, shortly before the meeting starts via FTC.gov. The event will be recorded, and the webcast and any related comments will be available on the Commission’s website after the meeting. The Commission retains discretion to make public comments available following the event on ftc.gov.

Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber; Institution of Investigation, Scheduling of Public Hearings, and Determination That the Investigation Is Extraordinarily Complicated

On March 13, 2024, the International Trade Commission published in the Federal Register (89 FR 18435) Notice of institution of investigation and scheduling of publichearings.

Federal Prison Industries Awarded Jacket Contract

March 13, 2024, Federal Prison Industries,** doing business as UNICOR, Washington, D.C., has been awarded a maximum $14,025,000 modification (P00003) exercising the first one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-23-D-0037) with two one-year option periods for physical fitness uniform jackets. This is an indefinite-delivery contract. Location of performance is Illinois, with a March 26, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Mandatory source

Trouser Contract Awarded

March 12, 2024, Bethel Industries Inc.,* Jersey City, New Jersey, has been awarded a maximum $8,040,600 modification (P00010) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1559) with three one-year option periods for trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Locations of performance are Kentucky and Mississippi, with a March 11, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

*Small Business

Army and Air Force Trouser Contract Awarded

March 12, 2024, M&M Manufacturing LLC,* Lajas, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $8,446,500 modification (P00011) exercising the second one‐year option period of a one‐year base contract (SPE1C1‐22‐D‐1519) with three one‐year option periods for trousers. This is a firm‐fixed‐price, indefinite‐delivery/indefinite‐quantity contract. The ordering period end date is March 11, 2025. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

*Small Business

Clothing Wholesaler Executive Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Customs Fraud Scheme to Avoid Paying Millions of Dollars in Duties

A Paramount-based clothing wholesale company executive was sentenced today to 48 months in federal prison for undervaluing imported garments in a scheme to avoid paying millions of dollars in customs duties.

Mohamed Daoud Ghacham, 40, of Bell, was sentenced by United States District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong, who also ordered him to pay $6,390,781 in restitution.

Ghacham pleaded guilty in December 2022 to one count of conspiracy to pass false and fraudulent papers through a customhouse.

Ghacham’s company, Ghacham Inc., which does business under the “Platini” brand name, imported clothing from China and submitted fraudulent invoices to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that undervalued the shipments, allowing the company to avoid paying the full amounts of tariffs owed on the imports.

Read more HERE.

TJX Recalls Children’s Brown Stretch Twill Pants Sets Due to Choking Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Marshalls

This recall involves Tommy Bahama brand brown stretch twill children’s pants with rib cuffs and with a drawstring that were sold as part of a set with either a blue or green butter fleece crewneck top with an embroidered winking smiley face by the left shoulder. The pants were sold in sizes 18M to 5T. The sewn-in label on the pants is printed with “Suzhou Megatex Import And Export” and the style number CP08513. Only the pants in the set are included in this recall.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled pants away from children and cut off the faux drawstrings to eliminate the hazard. Consumers can also contact TJX for instructions on how to destroy the pants and obtain a full refund. Consumers can also return the pants to any Marshalls store for a full refund.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Marshalls stores nationwide from December 2023 through February 2024 for $13 (set with green top) and $15 (set with blue top).

Importer: The TJX Companies Inc., of Framingham, Massachusetts

Manufactured In: China

Recall number: 24-152

More information and photos HERE.

Request for Comments on Promoting Supply Chain Resilience

On March 7, 2024, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative published in the Federal Register (89 FR 16608) Request for Comments on Promoting Supply Chain Resilience.

USTR invites comments to inform the development of trade and investment policy initiatives that promote supply chain resilience.

Commenters should submit information related to one or more of the following questions:

1. How can U.S. trade and investment policy, in conjunction with relevant domestic incentive measures, better support growth and investment in domestic manufacturing and services?

2. What existing or new tools could help ensure that growth in domestic manufacturing and services does not undergo the same offshoring that we have experienced over the past few decades?

3. How can U.S. trade and investment policy promote a virtuous cycle and ``race to the top'' through stronger coordination and alignment on labor and environmental protections within trusted networks among regional and like-minded trading partners and allies?

4. What are examples of trade and investment policy tools that potentially could be deployed in the following sectors to enhance supply chain resilience? In these sectors, what features of the current policy landscape are working well, or less well, to advance resilience?

• Aerospace and aerospace components.
• Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
• Automobiles and automotive parts.
• Call centers, business processing operations, and related services.
• Critical minerals, including for electric vehicle and large-scale energy storage batteries, and related recycling.
• Metals.
• Pharmaceutical and medical goods.
• Semiconductors, microelectronics, and inputs thereto.
• Renewable energy generation, transmission, and storage, including solar and wind technology and inputs thereto.
• Textiles, such as yarns, fabrics, apparel, and other finished goods.

5. What additional sectors may need dedicated trade and investment policy approaches to advance supply chain resilience? What should such approaches entail? With respect to those sectors, what features of the current policy landscape are working well, or less well, to advance resilience?

6. Across sectors, how does access to capital equipment, manufacturing equipment, and technology support supply chain resilience for U.S. producers, and is there a role for trade and investment policy?

7. How can the development of technical standards and regulations support supply chain resilience?

8. There is concern that preferential rules of origin in free trade agreements can operate as a ``backdoor'' benefiting goods and/or firms from countries that are not party to the agreements and are not bound by labor and environmental commitments. What actions could be taken to mitigate these risks and maximize production in the parties? What policies could support strong rules of origin and adherence to rules of origin?

9. What factors are driving supply chain and sourcing decisions, and how does trade and investment policy impact them? How do companies factor geopolitical risk into their global and domestic manufacturing and sourcing decisions? How do companies take into account traceability and transparency considerations in supply chain and sourcing decisions?

10. To what extent is supply chain resilience shaping capital allocation decisions among industry and investors?

11. How can supply chain resilience be measured, including the costs of insufficient resilience, and the impacts of trade and investment policy on resilience? What are appropriate quantitative or qualitative data to consider?

12. How can U.S. trade and investment policy support supply chains that are inclusive of small disadvantaged businesses and underserved businesses, including minority-owned and women-owned businesses, veteran-owned businesses, service-disabled veteran owned small businesses, and HUBZone businesses,

Men's and Women's Dress Oxford Shoe Contract Awarded

March 6, 2024, Capps Shoe Co. LLC,* Gretna, Virginia, has been awarded a maximum $22,357,715 fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for men's and women's dress oxford shoes. This was a competitive acquisition with three responses received. This is a three-year contract with no option periods. Location of performance is Michigan, with a March 6, 2027, ordering period end date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2027 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0037).

*Small Business

Marine Blouse and Trouser Contract Awarded

March 5, 2024, Pentaq Manufacturing Corp.,** Sabana, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $14,281,650 modification (P00012) exercising the first one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-23-D-0035) with four one-year option periods for blouses and trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is March 9, 2025. Using military service is Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-23-D-0035).

**Small business in historically underutilized business zones

Lightweight Jacket Contract Awarded

March 5, 2024, Bernard Cap LLC,* Hialeah, Florida, has been awarded a maximum $43,907,294 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for men’s, woman’s and General Officer lightweight jackets. This was a competitive acquisition with five responses received. This is a five-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is March 4, 2029. Using military service is Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2029 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0035).

*Small Business

Air Force and Marine Shoe Contract Awarded

February 29, 2024, Capps Shoe Co. LLC,* Gretna, Virginia, has been awarded a maximum $9,851,474 fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for women's poromeric dress shoes. This was a competitive acquisition with one response received. This is a two-year contract with no option periods. The ordering period end date is Feb. 27, 2026. Using military services are Air Force and Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2024 through 2026 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-24-D-0034).

*Small Business

Vanilla Underground Minecraft TNT Children’s Pajamas Recalled Due to Burn Hazard and Violation of Federal Flammability Regulations; Imported by Premier P

The “Minecraft All Over Creeper TNT” garment is a hooded one-piece pajama with a soft, raised fabric printed with green Creepers and TNTs from the Minecraft video game. There are bright green cuffs on the wrists and ankles, a bright green zipper that extends from the neck to the waist, and a hood. On the front of the neck label is the word “Minecraft” and on the back of the label is “2023 Mojang AB. TM Microsoft Corporation”. On the front of the side-seam label is Vanilla Underground’s logo, “Vanilla Underground”, “vanillaunderground.com” and Vanilla Underground’s address. The back of the side-seam label lists the washing instructions, “Made in China”, “100% Polyester” and “Keep away from fire”.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled pajamas away from children, stop using them and contact Vanilla Underground for a full refund. Consumers should destroy the garments by cutting them in half and disposing of them in accordance with local and state recycling laws. Consumers should send a photo of the destroyed garment to customercare@vanillaunderground.com. Upon receipt of the photo, consumers will be issued a full refund of the purchase price.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Online on amazon.com and vanillaunderground.com from October 2022 through January 2024 for between $42 and $44.

Importer(s): Premier P. LTD, of United Kingdom

Manufactured In: China

Recall number: 24-133

More information and photos HERE

Oso & Me Recalls Children’s Pajama Sets Due to Burn Hazard; Violation of the Federal Flammability Regulations for Children’s Sleepwear

This recall involves Oso & Me’s 100% cotton children’s long sleeve, two-piece pajama sets. The “Animal Party” style pajama sets are light blue with dark blue velvet piping, and have a print of lions, zebras, flamingos, monkeys, and bears. The recalled pajama sets were sold in sizes 3Y, 4Y, 5Y, 6Y, 7Y and 8Y and come with a reusable cotton gift bag with matching fabric. “Oso & Me” and the size are printed on the neck label and waist band label. “RN15567”, “Made in Sri Lanka”, and the care instructions appear on the side seam.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the children’s pajamas immediately and contact Oso & Me for a full refund. Consumers who purchased the product will be asked to destroy the garment by cutting the top and bottom in half, and sending the recalling firm a photo of the destroyed garment to ProductRecall@osoandme.com. Upon receipt of the photo, consumers will be issued a full refund of the purchase price.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Stores nationwide and online at Oso & Me, The Little, Mud Pie, Marigold Modern, Nellie George, Pitt Street Kids, Swaddle AL, and Bea Colette from January 2020 through November 2023 for about $98. Products were also gifted to influencers and friends of the brand directly by Oso & Me.

Importer(s): Oso Children LLC, of San Francisco, California

Manufactured In: Sri Lanka

Recall number: 24-135

More information and photos HERE.

Children’s Pajamas Recalled Due to Burn Hazard and Violation of Federal Flammability Standards; Sold Exclusively by Liverpool Football Club

This recall involves 17 styles of Liverpool Football Club-branded children’s pajamas (four sleepsuits and 13 pajama sets). The pajama sets were sold in sizes 9-12 Months, 12-18 Months, 18-24 Months, 3-4 Years, 5-6 Years, 7-8 Years, 9-10 Years, and 11-12 Years. The size and “L.F.C.” are printed on the red neck label. “L.F.C.”, the product code, “Made in China”, the fiber content, and the washing instructions are printed on a sewn-in, side-seam label. 

Product Name	Product Code	Color	Fabric content
LFC Baby 2 Pack Sleep Suit	A21RV01	Navy/Gray; Red/Gray/White	100% Cotton
LFC Junior Short PJ Set	A21PF13	Top: Gray/Red/Navy Blue/White; Bottom: Red/Navy Blue	Top: 92% Cotton, 8% Polyester; Bottom: 100% Cotton
LFC Junior Red Long PJ Set	A21PF14	Top: Red/White; Bottom: Red/White/Yellow	100% Cotton
LFC Junior Gray Long PJ Set	A21PF16	Top: Gray/Pink/Red; Bottom: Gray/Pink	98% Cotton, 2% Polyester
LFC Junior Striped Short PJ Set	A21PF17	Top: Red/Gray/Blue/White; Bottom: Gray/Red	98% Cotton, 2% Polyester
LFC Junior Short PJ Set	A22PF15	Gray/Red	Top: 95% Cotton, 5% Viscose; Bottom: 100% Cotton
LFC Junior Red/Gray Long PJ Set	A22PF16	Top: Gray/Red; Bottom: Red/White	Top: 92% Cotton, 8% Polyester; Bottom: 100% Cotton
LFC Junior Heart Long PJ Set	A22PF19	Top: Red/White;  Bottom: Gray/Red	Top: 100% Cotton; Bottom: 98% Cotton, 2% Polyester
LFC 2 Pack Red & Gray Baby Sleep Suits	A22RV02	Red/White	100% Cotton
LFC 23/24 Home Baby PJ Set	S23MN08	Red/White	100% Cotton
LFC 23/24 Home Baby Sleep Suit	S23MN09	Red/White	100% Cotton
LFC 23/24 Away Sleepsuit	S23MN15	Green/White/Black	100% Cotton
LFC 23/24 Home Junior PJ Set	S23TM04	Red/White	100% Cotton
LFC Juniors Short Pajama Set Charcoal Red	A23TM33	Top: Red/Gray/White; Bottom: Red/White	Top: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton; Bottom: 100% Cotton
LFC Juniors Long Pajama Set Charcoal Red	A23TM15	Top: Gray/Red Bottom: Gray/White	Top: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton; Bottom: 100% Cotton
LFC Juniors Long Pajama Set Charcoal Red	A23TM16	Top: Gray/Red Pants: Gray/White	Top: 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton; Bottom: 100% Cotton
LFC Blippi Long Pajamas	A23BL13	Red/Orange/Blue/Yellow/ Black/White	100% Cotton