New CAFTA-DR Short Supply Request: Certain Double Weave Nylon/Polyester/Spandex Fabric

The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements ("CITA") is considering Commercial Availability Request File Number CA2026001 for certain double weave nylon/polyester/spandex fabric, as specified below.

Interested Entities wishing to submit a Response with an Offer to Supply ("Response") must do so by the deadline of 11:59 P.M.(EDT) on May 14, 2026. Rebuttals to Responses are due by 11:59 P.M.(EDT) on May 20, 2026.

REQUESTED BY: Varsity Pro LTDA de CV, San Jose Villanueva, La Libertad, El Salvador.

SPECIFICATIONS: Certain Double Weave Nylon/Polyester/Spandex Fabric

HTS: 5407.72.00.60

Fabric Type: Woven – Double Weave

Fiber Content (AATCC 20A): 58–68% Nylon, 21-31% Polyester and 8–14% Spandex

Yarn Size

Warp Yarn: 65-70 Denier/48 Filaments Full-Dull Texturized +35 -45 Denier Spandex Textured Filament

Weft Yarn 1: 65-70 Denier /48 Filaments Full-Dull Texturized + 45 -35 Denier Spandex Textured Filament

Weft Yarn 2: 165-175 Denier /144 Filaments Semi-Dull Texturized

Weave Type: Woven, Double Weave Dobby

Thread Count (ASTM D3775): 66 - 72 warp ends × 55 - 60 filling picks

Fabric Weight (g/m²) (ASTM D3776): 232 – 242 g/m2

Width (cuttable) (ASTM D3774)

Metric: 124.5 – 149.9 cm, 137.2 cm cuttable

English: 49 - 59 inches, 54 cuttable

Stretch (%) (ASTM D3107)

Warp: 56.4% (45%-65%)

Weft: 26.4% (15%-35%)

Stretch Direction: Four-way stretch

Dye Type: Piece dye of various colors

Shrinkage (AATCC 135): +/- 5%

Contract Opportunity: Sock Black Athletic

April 3, 2026, Solicitation for the purchase of the Socks, Black, Athletic will result with the intent of the Government to award two contracts – a 50% portion (Lot 0001) award and a 50% portion (Lot 0002) award. The RFP and proposed contract(s) will be issued as 100% Small Business Set-Aside. Only small business firms may submit offers for this acquisition. The Small Business Set-Aside will result in firm fixed price contract or contracts in accordance with FAR Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Items. The resultant contract will be an award of a 60-month contract consisting of five (5) 12-month price tier periods. Each tier shall be for a 12-month period.

All materials/components and manufacturing shall be Berry Amendment compliant.

See: SAM Notification.

Aerospace Rayon Contract Awarded

December 31, 2025, ICF Mercantile LLC,* Warren, New Jersey, has been awarded a maximum $150,000,000 firm-fixed-price delivery order (SP8000-26-F-0008) issued against an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (SP8000-26-D-0005) for aerospace grade rayon fiber. This was a sole-source acquisition using justification 10 U.S. Code 3204 (a)(3)(A), as stated in Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-3. This is a three-year delivery order. The delivery order end date is Dec. 30, 2028. Using military services are Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 transaction funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Contracting Services Office, Columbus, Ohio.

*Small business

New Request for Commercial Availability Determination under the CAFTA-DR: Certain Nylon/Polyester Dobby Weave Fabric

The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements (CITA) is considering Commercial Availability Request File Number CA2024002 for certain nylon/polyester dobby weave fabric, as specified below.

Responses are due by 11:59 P.M. EST on Monday, July 8, 2024.

SPECIFICATIONS: Certain Nylon/Polyester Dobby Weave Fabric

HTS: 5407.73.2015, 5407.73.2060, 5407.53.2020, and 5407.53.2060

Fabric Type: Dobby Weave on a Triple Beam Air Jet Loom

Fabric Content: 78% - 88% Polyester / 12% - 22% Nylon

Yarn Size:

Warp Yarn 1: Polyester 170Denier/144Filament Full Dull Air Textured Yarn (FDATY)

Warp Yarn 2: 166D/68F Nylon

Warp Yarn 3: Nylon 30D monofilament

Filling Yarn 1: Polyester 75D/72F Semi Dull Texturized

Filling Yarn 2: Polyester 170D/144F

Filling Yarn 3: Nylon 30D monofilament + 166D/68F Cordura (Nylon 6.6)

Note: Yarn size may vary by +/- 5% after processing. The yarn size designations describe a range of specifications for yarn in its greige condition. They are intended as specifications to be followed by the mill in sourcing yarn to produce the fabric. Weaving, dyeing, and finishing 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.

Thread Count:

Metric: Various

English: Various

Weight: 147 - 185 grams per sq. meter

Finished Density (ends/cm x picks/cm): 102 - 113 x 159 - 176

Face Side (Technical Face or Back): Technical Side

Width:

Metric: 137 to 150 cm, 142.24 cuttable

English: 54-60 inches, 57 cuttable

Dye Type: Yarn Dye of Various colors

NOTICE: New Request for Commercial Availability Determination under the CAFTA-DR: Certain Nylon Dobby Weave Fabric

The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements (CITA) is considering Commercial Availability Request File Number CA2023002 for certain nylon dobby weave fabric, as specified below.

Responses are due by 11:59 P.M. EST on Thursday, January 11, 2024. Rebuttals to Responses are due by 11:59 P.M. EST on Thursday, January 18, 2024.

Sources Sought for DR-CAFTA Compliant Nylon Yarn

An Apparel manufacture seeks DR-CAFTA compliant filament nylon yarn. For specs, contact david@agathonassociates.com

U.S.-Chile Free Trade Agreement Short Supply Petition Filed for Filament Rayon

On March 7, 2023, the Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements published in the Federal Register (88 FR 14149) Commercial Availability Request under the United States-Chile Free Trade Agreement. Filament rayon is already exempt from the yarn forward requirement in some U.S. free trade agreements, such as DR-DAFTA, Colombia, Peru, and USMCA.

Sources Sought Domestically Produced Rayon

DLA Troop Support, an activity of the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), is the Defense Department's principal buyer of military flags and metal and embroidered insignias. Numerous heraldic specifications require rayon as a component in a wide variety of items purchased by DLA Troop Support such as organizational flags.

Determinations have been made that rayon yarn/fiber is not currently produced in the United States or its prossessions. There is currently a Domestic Non-Availability Determination in effect for Rayon. DLA Troop Support is hereby providing producers of rayon yarn/fiber complying with specification and domestic source and content requirements of the Berry Amendment and opportunity to identify themselves. In accordance with 10 U.S.C. 2241, every component (including all natural and synthetic fibers) must be grown and produced in the United States or its possessions. If your firm meets this criteria and produces rayon/fiber domestically, please submit your firm's name and point of contact to DLA Troop Support, ATTN Charles L. Brown II, via e-mail at charles.brown3@dla.mil. DLA Troop Support will also entertain domestically produced substitutes for rayon yarn/fiber. If your firm manufactures domestic substitutes for rayon yarn/fiber that are capable of meeting specification requirements called for in heraldic items, please submit your company information along with the domestically manufactured substitute component.

Read more HERE.

Domestic Sources Sought for Reflective Fabric

REFLECTIVE FABRIC Nylon, Polyester and Lycra meet the following specifications:

REFLECTIVE NYLON 100% Polyamide fibers with reflective microspheres (25 washes) reflective microspheres coating with PU plastic adhesive

REFLECTIVE POLYESTER 100% Polyester fibers with reflective microspheres (25 washes) reflective microspheres coating with PU plastic adhesive

REFLECTIVE LYCRA 92% Polyester fibers 8% lycra with reflective microspheres (25 washes)

Screen Printing with reflective microspheres

$5.5 million total FTC settlements with Kohl’s and Walmart challenge “bamboo” and eco claims, shed light on Penalty Offense enforcement

For consumers shopping for textiles for the home, products promoted as made from bamboo are a popular draw. But the FTC says some items advertised by global retailers Kohl’s and Walmart as “bamboo” were actually made of rayon. According to separate FTC settlements, the companies’ misleading representations violated the FTC Act and the Textile Act. In addition, the FTC says Kohl’s and Walmart engaged in “greenwashing” by making deceptive eco-friendly claims for those products. And even businesses that don’t have anything to do with textiles should take note of these settlements. Why? Because they use the FTC’s revived Penalty Offense Authority to support a $2.5 million civil penalty from Kohl’s and a $3 million civil penalty from Walmart for violating the Textile Act when they were on notice that improper labeling and advertising of textile products could subject them to civil penalties.

The complaint against Kohl’s charges that the company falsely represented that sheets, pillows, bath rugs, and towels advertised as made wholly or in part from bamboo were, in fact, made of rayon. What’s more, the company described them with terms like “sustainable,” “highly renewable,” and “environmentally friendly.” Kohl’s also advertised some of the products online with a “Cleaner Solutions” seal that linked people to a “Sustainability at Kohl’s” webpage describing initiatives suggesting that the company “care[s] about the planet.”

According to the complaint against Walmart, the company also made false bamboo claims in promoting sheets, towels, blankets, and nursing bras. In addition, Walmart marketed the items with phrases like “eco-friendly & sustainable” and “renewable and environmentally sustainable”

So what’s the real story about bamboo? And how does the FTC know that Kohl’s and Walmart were aware of the truth about bamboo before the companies made those deceptive claims to market the products? That’s where the story gets interesting.

As the complaints explain, under the Textile Act and Rules, rayon is the generic name for a type of fiber made from cellulose through a manufacturing process that uses chemicals like sodium hydroxide that are hazardous to the environment. Although the cellulose could come from bamboo fiber, “hazardous air pollutants (HAP) emitted from cellulose products manufacturing operations” include – according to the Code of Federal Regulations – carbon disulfide, carbonyl sulfide, ethylene oxide, methanol, methyl chloride, propylene oxide, and toluene.

If you think back to high school chemistry, sodium hydroxide is also known by some more evocative names, including “lye” and “caustic soda” – facts that belie the “green” impression conveyed by the word “bamboo.”

Under the Textile Act and Rules, ads for products that reference or imply fiber content must disclose the generic fiber names recognized or established by the FTC and can’t misrepresent fiber content. Therefore, marketing materials for manufactured textile products composed, in whole or in part, of regenerated cellulose fiber must use the generic fiber name – in this case, “rayon” or “viscose.”

How can the FTC be so sure that Kohl’s and Walmart knew that? Because the FTC told them in January 2010 Warning Letters sent directly to those companies and others. FTC staff explained in detail why selling rayon products as “bamboo” was against the law. In addition, the letters enclosed a “synopsis” we now call them Notices of Penalty Offenses – expressly stating that the FTC was putting the company on notice that “the failure to correct improper labeling or advertising of textile products could subject the company to civil penalties.”

The complaints against Kohl’s and Walmart charge them with making false or unsubstantiated claims, in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act. According to the FTC, they misrepresented that the products were made of bamboo and that they provided environmental benefits when, in fact, the rayon manufacturing process uses toxic chemicals and emits hazardous pollutants. The complaints also allege violations of the Textile Act and Rules.

Companies that follow what’s up at the FTC have been wondering how the agency would use its recently revived penalty offense authority. Count III in the Kohl’s and Walmart complaints may help to answer that question. Citing Section 5(m)(1)(B), the FTC alleges the companies had actual knowledge that falsely or deceptively advertising textile products would subject them to civil penalties.

Read more HERE.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has recommended that the President make certain modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has recommended that the President make certain modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) to conform it with World Customs Organization (WCO) amendments to the global Harmonized System.

The recommended modifications would modify the U.S. tariff schedule to conform with amendments made to the Harmonized System nomenclature by the World Customs Organization on June 28, 2019, with expected implementation date of January 1, 2022. The WCO Recommendation contains about 350 amendments to the Harmonized System nomenclature relating to a wide range of products and product groups, including, for example:

• flat panel display modules;
• 3D printers;
• electronic textiles;
• unmanned aerial vehicles (i.e., drones);
• smartphones;
• electric vehicles;
• novel tobacco products intended for inhalation without combustion;
• edible insect products;
• edible microbial fats and oils;
• virgin and extra virgin olive oil;
• cell therapy products;
• rapid diagnostic test kits for detecting the Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases;
• placebos and double-blinded clinical trial kits;
• parts for improvised explosive devices;
• electronic waste (e-waste) and other hazardous waste;
• amusement park equipment;
• cultural articles (i.e., antiquities);
• hazardous chemicals controlled by the Rotterdam Convention;
• ozone-depleting substances controlled by the Montreal Protocol;
• products controlled by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons; and
• fentanyl-opioid substances and derivatives controlled by the International Narcotics Control Board.

Of interest to followers of Agathon Associates --

• 5501.10, Synthetic filament two of nylon or other polyamides, is being broken out as
  • 5501.11, Synthetic filament two of nylon or other polyamides: of aramids and
  • 5501.19, Synthetic filament two of nylon or other polyamides: other
• Changes to floor coverings classified in Chapter 57
• Changes to terry towel fabric classified in Chapter 58
• Certain textile products and articles, for technical uses classified in Chapter 59
• Knit apparel of Chapter 61
• Non-knit apparel of Chapter 62

The changes appear not to affect tariff rates or country of origin determinations. However, imports will need to take care when the changes take effect to use the new classifications. Changed classifications will, also, make it more difficult to track import data over time.

The Commission’s report, Recommended Modifications in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, 2021, Inv. No. 1205-13, USITC Publication 5171, March 2021, is available on the USITC web site at: https://www.usitc.gov/publications/other/pub5171.pdf.

Fabrics Sought for CAFTA Application

Agathon Associates have been contacted by an apparel manufacturer in Guatemala seeking the following fabrics.

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	87/13% Polyester/Wool 2 Layer Merino Wool	7,000 yds	3,000 yds	4,000 yds
Yarn number :	Outside : 41s 70/30% Poly/Wool, Inside : 40s Polyester Spun
Fabric :	Circular (Double Knit)
Weight :	230g/m2
Finished :	Wicking

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	87/13% Polyester/Wool Thermawool	6,000 yds	3,000 yds	3,000 yds
Yarn number :	70s 70/30% Poly/Wool, Inside : DTY 100D/144F
Fabric :	Circular (Double Knit)
Weight :	180g/m2
Finished :	Wicking, Pin Brush Insade

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	57% EcoNyl Regenerated Nylon, 38% PA, 5% Spandex	2,000 yds	1,000 yds	1,000 yds
Yarn number :	152/70 Econyl Regenerated Nylon, 95/70 PA Covering Yarn with SP 40D
Fabric :	Plain Weave with Spandex
Weight :	107g/m2
Finished :	N/A

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	100% Polyester with a coated PU face	1,000 yds	500 yds	500 yds
Yarn number :	DTY 150/144
Fabric :	Circular (Single Knit)
Weight :	240g/m2
Finished :	Pin Brush Inside

If you are interested in this business opportunity contact David Trumbull at david@agathonassociates.com and I'll put you in touch with the requesting company.

Fabrics Sought for CAFTA Application

Agathon Associates have been contacted by an apparel manufacturer in Guatemala seeking the following fabrics.

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	87/13% Polyester/Wool 2 Layer Merino Wool	7,000 yds	3,000 yds	4,000 yds
Yarn number :	Outside : 41s 70/30% Poly/Wool, Inside : 40s Polyester Spun
Fabric :	Circular (Double Knit)
Weight :	230g/m2
Finished :	Wicking

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	87/13% Polyester/Wool Thermawool	6,000 yds	3,000 yds	3,000 yds
Yarn number :	70s 70/30% Poly/Wool, Inside : DTY 100D/144F
Fabric :	Circular (Double Knit)
Weight :	180g/m2
Finished :	Wicking, Pin Brush Insade

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	57% EcoNyl Regenerated Nylon, 38% PA, 5% Spandex	2,000 yds	1,000 yds	1,000 yds
Yarn number :	152/70 Econyl Regenerated Nylon, 95/70 PA Covering Yarn with SP 40D
Fabric :	Plain Weave with Spandex
Weight :	107g/m2
Finished :	N/A

FABRIC SPECS		Need Q'ty in 2020	until March 2020	until June 2020
Fiber content :	100% Polyester with a coated PU face	1,000 yds	500 yds	500 yds
Yarn number :	DTY 150/144
Fabric :	Circular (Single Knit)
Weight :	240g/m2
Finished :	Pin Brush Inside

If you are interested in this business opportunity contact David Trumbull at david@agathonassociates.com and I put you in touch with the requesting company.

Another FTZ Denied When U.S. Textile Industry Offers to Supply the Articles

On August 22, 2018, the Foreign Trade Zone Board published in the Federal Register (83 FR 42461) Additional Production Authority Not Approved; The Coleman Company, Inc.; Subzone 119I (Textile-Based Personal Flotation Devices); Sauk Rapids, Minnesota

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

EXAMINER'S REPORT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

• Currently pending before the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board (the Board) is an application requesting authority for The Coleman Company, Inc. (Coleman) to produce personal flotation devices (PFDs) at Coleman’s plant in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota. Under the Board’s regulations, the Board may only approve an application requesting production authority if the activity is not inconsistent with the "threshold" (trade policy) evaluation factors and if approval would result in a net positive economic effect and a significant public benefit(s) – with the burden of proof on the applicant.
• The primary FTZ benefit that Coleman seeks through the pending application pertains to imported textile fabrics used to produce PFDs for the U.S. market. For such production, Coleman seeks to pay the finished PFD duty rate (4.5% to 7.0%) on the value of the imported fabrics (otherwise dutiable at up to 17.2%). Coleman’s application is supported by certain U.S. suppliers, the Outdoor Industry Association and certain elected officials, and is opposed by certain U.S. textile producers and textile industry associations and certain elected officials. Coleman and supporters of the application express that approval would improve the competitiveness of its Minnesota plant relative to offshore alternatives. The parties opposing the application express that approval would result in negative effects on U.S. textile producers that are capable of producing the types of fabrics for which Coleman seeks FTZ benefits on imports.
• The case record indicates that Coleman's requested FTZ authority would reduce the cost to produce PFDs at its Sauk Rapids plant, but that production of PFDs at the plant fundamentally depends on other factors unrelated to FTZ authority. As such, there does not appear to be a significant potential positive impact on activity or related employment at the plant attributable to FTZ authority (and therefore no significant resulting secondary effects on domestic suppliers attributable to FTZ authority). Further, the record contains evidence of a potential negative impact from FTZ authority on U.S. textile producers (which would extend to potential negative secondary effects on those textile producers' suppliers). Overall, analysis of the case record does not indicate that Coleman has met the burden of proof to demonstrate that approval would result in a net positive economic effect (i.e., that potential positive effects attributable to FTZ approval would outweigh potential negative effects). Without the regulatory standards for approval being met, the examiner is unable to recommend approval.
• Recent presidential actions stress the importance of supporting the U.S. manufacturing base – which would include domestic producers of the types of textile materials which Coleman seeks to import under its requested FTZ authority. For example, Presidential Proclamation (PP) 9627 (July 17, 2017) states, in part, that '[m]y Administration recognizes the critical connection between a strong manufacturing base and a thriving economy,' and Executive Order (EO) 13806 (July 21, 2017) states, in part, that "the ability of the United States to maintain readiness, and to surge in response to an emergency, directly relates to the capacity, capabilities, and resiliency of our manufacturing and defense industrial base and supply chains." The recommendation not to approve the Coleman application is consistent with these policies.

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

EXAMINER'S REPORT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

• Currently pending before the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board (the Board) is an application requesting authority for The Coleman Company, Inc. (Coleman) to produce personal flotation devices (PFDs) at Coleman’s plant in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota. Under the Board’s regulations, the Board may only approve an application requesting production authority if the activity is not inconsistent with the "threshold" (trade policy) evaluation factors and if approval would result in a net positive economic effect and a significant public benefit(s) – with the burden of proof on the applicant.

• The primary FTZ benefit that Coleman seeks through the pending application pertains to imported textile fabrics used to produce PFDs for the U.S. market. For such production, Coleman seeks to pay the finished PFD duty rate (4.5% to 7.0%) on the value of the imported fabrics (otherwise dutiable at up to 17.2%). Coleman’s application is supported by certain U.S. suppliers, the Outdoor Industry Association and certain elected officials, and is opposed by certain U.S. textile producers and textile industry associations and certain elected officials. Coleman and supporters of the application express that approval would improve the competitiveness of its Minnesota plant relative to offshore alternatives. The parties opposing the application express that approval would result in negative effects on U.S. textile producers that are capable of producing the types of fabrics for which Coleman seeks FTZ benefits on imports.

• The case record indicates that Coleman's requested FTZ authority would reduce the cost to produce PFDs at its Sauk Rapids plant, but that production of PFDs at the plant fundamentally depends on other factors unrelated to FTZ authority. As such, there does not appear to be a significant potential positive impact on activity or related employment at the plant attributable to FTZ authority (and therefore no significant resulting secondary effects on domestic suppliers attributable to FTZ authority). Further, the record contains evidence of a potential negative impact from FTZ authority on U.S. textile producers (which would extend to potential negative secondary effects on those textile producers' suppliers). Overall, analysis of the case record does not indicate that Coleman has met the burden of proof to demonstrate that approval would result in a net positive economic effect (i.e., that potential positive effects attributable to FTZ approval would outweigh potential negative effects). Without the regulatory standards for approval being met, the examiner is unable to recommend approval.

• Recent presidential actions stress the importance of supporting the U.S. manufacturing base – which would include domestic producers of the types of textile materials which Coleman seeks to import under its requested FTZ authority. For example, Presidential Proclamation (PP) 9627 (July 17, 2017) states, in part, that '[m]y Administration recognizes the critical connection between a strong manufacturing base and a thriving economy,' and Executive Order (EO) 13806 (July 21, 2017) states, in part, that "the ability of the United States to maintain readiness, and to surge in response to an emergency, directly relates to the capacity, capabilities, and resiliency of our manufacturing and defense industrial base and supply chains." The recommendation not to approve the Coleman application is consistent with these policies.

SELECTED POINTS FROM THE EXAMINERE'S REPORT

• The record of this proceeding indicates the potential for approval of expanded FTZ production authority to play a positive, contributory role for Coleman’s Sauk Rapids plant. However, the record does not demonstrate that such a potential positive effect on Coleman’s activity/employment attributable to FTZ authority – as opposed to resulting from other factors cited above – would outweigh potential negative effects for U.S. fabric suppliers or other U.S. PFD producers. Taking into account the final recommendation of OTEXA – as well as all other information, evidence and argument on the record of this proceeding – the examiner’s finding is that the applicant has not met its burden of proof to demonstrate that approval would result in a net positive economic effect and significant public benefit(s).

• [T]he types of textile materials that Coleman seeks to import under its requested FTZ authority are also produced by one or more remaining domestic manufacturers. Such U.S. manufacturers have been the focus of a range of recent presidential actions explaining the Administration’s trade policy. One example is PP 9627, which states in part:

  My Administration recognizes the critical connection between a strong manufacturing base and a thriving economy. I am committed to promoting American manufacturing, opening markets around the world for our producers, and protecting our businesses from unfair trade practices.

• Another example is EO Order 13806, which states in part:

  A healthy manufacturing and defense industrial base and resilient supply chains are essential to the economic strength and national security of the United States. The ability of the United States to maintain readiness, and to surge in response to an emergency, directly relates to the capacity, capabilities, and resiliency of our manufacturing and defense industrial base and supply chains. Modern supply chains, however, are often long and the ability of the United States to manufacture or obtain goods critical to national security could be hampered by an inability to obtain various essential components, which themselves may not be directly related to national security. Thus, the United States must maintain a manufacturing and defense industrial base and supply chains capable of manufacturing or supplying those items.

• The recommendation not to approve the Coleman application is consistent with the policy set out in PP 9627 and EO 13806, and with other recent presidential actions intended to support the U.S. manufacturing base.

Bill Pascrell (Dem., N.J.) Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill

In my home state of New Jersey, a diverse array of companies will be in a better position to compete as a result of this legislation.

We have ICF Mercantile, located in Fort Lee, New Jersey, which will obtain duty relief on high tenacity rayon yarn, an input for a material used for Naval defense systems. Unfortunately, this specialty yarn has not been produced domestically in 20 years – but that means there is no harm from removing the tariff here.

...

I agree with the Chairman that the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill would provide some much-needed relief to U.S. manufacturers and their workers across the country.

...

One key reason that this bill stands to enjoy broad, bipartisan support is the underlying analysis completed by the International Trade Commission and the Department of Commerce to ensure that products that are currently produced in the United States are not included in the final bill. In this way, the MTB is designed to prevent domestic companies from being harmed.

I look forward to working with other Members of Congress to pass a non-controversial MTB in the coming weeks for the first time in seven years. Seven years is too long to go between MTBs, and blame can be placed on the majority’s shortsighted and far too blunt earmark policy.

I also want to note that what we accomplish with the MTB in terms of boosting U.S. manufacturing competitiveness is small compared to the challenges our manufacturers are facing globally. For example, China has announced an ambitious industrial policy called “Made in China 2025” – a plan to transform China into a leader in advanced manufacturing, including in key sectors like aviation, rail, new energy vehicles, and agricultural machinery.

As a champion of U.S. manufacturing, I want to emphasize that we, as a country, need to be thinking big picture about our future. We, as a Committee, should be taking the lead here. Unfortunately, I don’t see that we are right now.

Before closing, I’d also like to say that while I’m glad that we are having this hearing today, I am still disappointed that this subcommittee has not held a hearing on the NAFTA renegotiations with Administration witnesses.

The need for a public hearing is highlighted by this Administration’s lacking record on transparency. In August, I led a letter calling for the Administration to appoint a Chief Transparency Officer, as required by statute, the Administration has still not done so. I have yet to receive a response to my letter, sent August 16th.

My transparency concerns go beyond process – press reports have now suggested that the NAFTA parties are negotiating on currency manipulation, but the Administration has given no indication of its plans or intentions on this issue.

While we are here today to discuss the MTB, there are other issues with significant consequences for America’s economic well-being that we need to be discussing openly. I look forward to a response from the Chairman on this matter very soon.

New Request for Commercial Availability Determination under the U.S.-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR)

Certain Polyester/Acrylic/Rayon Woven Flannel Fabric

The Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements (CITA) is considering Commercial Availability Request File Number 210.2017.09.08.Fabric.SchoolApparel,lnc for certain polyester/acrylic/rayon woven flannel fabric, as specified below. Responses are due by 11:59 P.M. (EST), September 22, 2017. Rebuttals to Responses are due by 11:59 P.M. (EST), September 28, 2017.

SPECIFICATIONS: Certain Polyester/Acrylic/Rayon Fabric

HTS: 5515.11.0005; 5515.11.0040

Fabric type: Woven Flannel

Fiber content: 49-54% Polyester; 22-27% Acrylic; 22-27% Rayon

Yarn size (Warp): 28-34/2 (Nm) composed of combined Polyester/Acrylic/Rayon fibers

Yarn size (Weft): 28-34/2 (Nm) composed of combined Polyester/Acrylic/Rayon fibers

Weave type: Twill

Fabric weight: 240-260 g/m2

Fabric width: 148-152 cm

Coloration: Dyed, composed of yarns of different colors

Finishing processes: Desized, preshrunk, dyed, brushed, hot-flattened, softened and decated.

Bahrain Requests Short Supply for Dozens of Fabrics. Comments Due July 21st

Since August 2006 Bahrain has been able to ship apparel and home textiles to the U.S. duty-free under the U.S.-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement. In 2016, according to TRADE DATA FROM OTEXA, Bahrain shipped about 70 million square meters of textile products to the U.S. almost all of which was exempted from the general yarn forward rule under a generous tariff preference level ("TPL") provision. That provision has now expired and Bahrain is seeking short supply status from a wide variety of fabrics.

U.S. textile producers of the fabrics listed below need to let the U.S. government know that they oppose adding such fabrics to the Bahrain FTA short supply list. Agathon Associates can assist you in filing objections. Call David Trumbull at 617-285-6004.

On May 22, 2017, the Committee for the Implementation of Textiles Agreements published in the Federal Register (82 FR 23204) Request for Public Comment on a Commercial Availability Request Under the U.S.-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement.

The Government of the United States received a request from the Government of Bahrain, submitted on March 23, 2017, to initiate consultations under Article 3.2.3 of the USBFTA. The Government of Bahrain is requesting that the United States and Bahrain ("the Parties") consider revising the rules of origin for certain knit and woven apparel to address availability of supply of certain knit and woven fabrics in the territories of the Parties. The President of the United States may proclaim a modification to the USBFTA rules of origin for textile and apparel products after the United States reaches an agreement with the Government of Bahrain on a modification under Article 3.2.5 of the USBFTA 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 and woven fabrics can be supplied by the U.S. domestic industry in commercial quantities in a timely manner.

Comments must be submitted by July 21, 2017.

The fabrics subject to this request, according to the fabric number in the request and organized by specific apparel end-use, are:

Knit apparel classified in chapter 61 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS):

Fabric 26: Knit pile, looped fabric, 90% polyester and 10% elastomeric suede, yarn count: Brushed P105xP50D+SP40D, weight 300 grams per meter squared (g/m2), width CW57'', classified in subheading 6001.22 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 27: Knit fabric of polyester (85-97%) and elastomeric (5-15%), classified in subheading 6004.10 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 28: Knit fabric of polyester (45-60%), cotton (35-50%) and elastomeric (5-12%), classified in subheading 6004.10 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 29: Knit fabric of rayon (59-75%), nylon (20-37%), and elastomeric (0-10%), classified in subheading 6006.42 of the HTSUS; and

Fabric 35: Knit fabric of polyester (68-78%), rayon (19-29%), and elastomeric (0-8%), classified in subheading 6006.32 of the HTSUS.

Woven apparel classified in chapter 62 of the HTSUS:

Fabric 15: Bleached or dyed satin weave or twill weave fabric of at least 60% lyocell and up to 40% nylon, polyester, or elastomeric, that does not meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2112 or ASTM 1506 protective standards, classified in heading 5516 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 16: Woven seersucker fabric of cotton, classified in subheadings 5208.42, 5208.52 or 5209.41 of the HTSUS; Fabric 17: Woven fabric of rayon (60-75%), nylon (30-35%), and elastomeric (1-5%), bleached, dyed, printed or of yarns of different colors, weighing 200-350 g/m\2,\ classified in subheadings 5516.91, 5516.92, 5516.93 or 5516.94 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 18: Woven fabric of rayon (50-84%), polyester (6-49%), and elastomeric (1-10%), weighing less than 225 g/m2, classified in headings 5408 or 5516 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 19: Woven fabric of polyester (50-65%), rayon (34-49%), and elastomeric (1-10%), weighing less than 225 g/m2, classified in headings 5407, 5512, or 5515 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 20: Woven fabric of polyester (51-65%) and rayon (35-49%), weighing less than 225 g/m2, classified in headings 5407, 5512, or 5515 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 21: 100% rayon woven fabric, classified in headings 5408 or 5516 of the HTSUS; and

Fabric 22: Woven jacquard fabric of rayon staple fiber, weighing 375 g/m2 or less, classified in subheadings 5516.13 or 5516.23 of the HTSUS.

Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, suit-type jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (other than swimwear), classified in heading 6203 of the HTSUS; and women's or girls' suits, ensembles, suit-type jackets, blazers, dresses, skirts, divided skirts, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (other than swimwear), classified in heading 6204 of the HTSUS:

Fabric 1: Two-way stretch woven fabric of polyester (57-76%), rayon (18-37%), and elastomeric (1-11%), classified in subheading 5515.19 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 2: Dyed rayon blend herringbone twill fabric of rayon (65-75%) and polyester (25-35%), weighing more than 200 g/m \2\,, classified in subheading 5516.92 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 3: Two-way stretch woven fabric of polyester (50-85%), viscose rayon (13-47%), and elastomeric (1-10%), classified in subheading 5515.11 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 4: One-way stretch woven fabric of polyester (50-85%), viscose rayon (13-47%), and elastomeric (1-10%), classified in subheading 5515.11 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 5: Woven fabric of polyester (60-90%), rayon (10-40%), and elastomeric (0-6%), classified in subheadings 5407.52, 5407.53, 5407.61, 5407.69, 5407.72, 5407.73, 5407.92, 5407.93, 5512.19, 5512.99, 5515.12, and 5515.19 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 6: Woven indigo dyed fabric of cotton (95-100%) and elastomeric (0-5%), classified in subheadings 5208.39.6090 and 5208.39.8090 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 7: Cotton corduroy woven fabric, classified in subheading 5801.22 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 8: Polyester corduroy woven fabric, classified in subheading 5801.32 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 9: Dyed sateen woven fabric of cotton (93%-100%) and elastomeric (0-7%), classified in subheading 5209.39.0020 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 10: Dobby weave fabric of cotton (93-99%) and elastomeric (1-7%), classified in subheading 5209.39.0080 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 11: Dobby weave fabric of 100% cotton, classified in subheading 5209.39 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 12: Woven fabric of spun modal rayon (50-95%), filament polyester (5-48%), and elastomeric (0-5%), classified in subheadings 5516.12, 5516.13, 5516.22 and5 516.23 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 13: Yarn-dyed woven fabric of lyocell staple fiber (55-85%) and cotton (15-45%), classified in subheadings 5516.13 and 5516.43 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 14: Woven fabric of rayon (67-80%), nylon (15-35%), and elastomeric (2-6%), classified in subheadings 5516.22, 5516.23 and 5516.24 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 23: Two-way stretch woven twill fabric of cotton (85-98%) and elastomeric (2-15%), classified in subheading 5209.32 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 24: Two-way stretch woven twill fabric of cotton (63-73%), polyester (20-30%), and elastomeric (2-12%), classified in subheading 5211.43 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 25: Woven twill fabric of cotton (77-87%), polyester (12-22%), and elastomeric (0-6%), classified in subheading 5211.43 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 30: Woven twill fabric of viscose rayon (51-61%), cotton (34-44%), and elastomeric (0-10%), classified in subheading 5516.42.0060 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 31: Two-way stretch woven twill fabric of cotton (47-57%), rayon (36-46%), and elastomeric (2-12%), classified in subheading 5211.32 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 32: Woven fabric of cotton (92-100%) and elastomeric (0-8%), classified in subheading 5209.31 of the HTSUS;

Fabric 33: Woven sateen fabric of 100% polyester, classified in subheading 5407.69 of the HTSUS; and

Fabric 34: Woven twill fabric of polyester (40-50%), viscose rayon (38-48%), linen (3-13%), and elastomeric (0-9%), classified in subheading 5515.11 of the HTSUS.

CITA is soliciting public comments regarding this request, particularly with respect to whether the fabrics described above can be supplied by the U.S. domestic industry in commercial quantities in a timely manner. Comments must be received no later than July 21, 2017.

U.S. Industry Weighs In Opposed to Rayon Tariff

Agathon Associates, on behalf of ICF Mercantile, and 24 other individuals or entities have filed comments with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative objecting to the proposed inclusion of rayon staple fiber on the list of products from the European Union potentially subject to 100% import duty in retaliation for the EU's unfair treatment of US beef

Here are the comments submitted by Agathon Associates--

1. Viscose rayon staple fiber is not available from domestic U.S. sources.

It is generally known in the textile industry that there is no U.S. production of viscose rayon, a fact that has been acknowledged by the U.S. government. Following the receipt of a request on April 17, 2007, from the United States Trade Representative, the U.S. International Trade Committee instituted investigation No. NAFTA-103-018 Certain Textile Articles: Probable Effect of Modification of NAFTA Rules of Origin for Goods of Canada and Mexico (Sanitary Articles and Nonwoven Wipes). The investigation found "There is no known U.S. production of either viscose rayon staple fibers or acrylic staple fibers" and "In September 2005, Liberty Fibers Corp., Lowland, TN, the sole North American producer of the subject rayon fibers, ceased all manufacturing operations…" Subsequently the U.S. government has determined that the rules of origin and short supply lists under or various free trade agreements should reflect the absence of domestic production of viscose rayon.

2. Other fibers cannot be substituted for viscose rayon.

Other fibers do not have the performance characteristics of rayon, which is why the U.S. Department of Defense requires rayon for certain applications and exempts certain rayon from the "Berry Amendment" domestic sourcing requirement.

3. Additional duties on rayon fiber is contrary to the economic interest of the U.S.

Additional duties on a product that can be sourced only from non-domestic sources is counter to U.S. policy intended to encourage domestic manufacturing. Since 1982, nearly every Congress has passed legislation, the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill, to temporarily suspend tariffs on certain imported products not available from domestic sources. Among the articles historically included in the MTB was rayon fiber. Since the last MTBs expired at the end of 2012, these U.S. manufacturers have been forced to pay duty on fiber that had been duty-free for several years. That 2013 snap-back to the general rate of duty harmed these manufacturers. Further increased duty imposed, due to unrelated trade in an agricultural product, will be a heavy burden on already burdened manufacturers. In 2016 Eleven U.S. manufacturers companies, including ICF Mercantile, filed petitions with the U.S. International Trade Commission for the suspension of the collection of duty on rayon fiber provided for in subheading 5504.10.00 under the new Miscellaneous Tariff Bill procedures of the American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act of 2016. These company are looking forward with sound reason to believe that the general rate of duty will be suspended. It would be highly inconsistent to grant manufacturers relief from a 4.3% import duty, only to impose an even larger duty as retaliation for the EU’s beef regime.

4. Additional duties on rayon fiber is contrary to the national security interests of the U.S.

Sec. 829 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (Public Law 110-181), enacted on January 28, 2008, provided a waiver for DoD to procure fire resistant rayon fiber for the production of uniforms whereby such fire resistant rayon fiber can be procured from foreign sources. In the case of the fire resistant rayon fiber that ICF Mercantile imports for DoD, the fiber is of European origin. Additional duties would adversely affect our military and tax payers.

Comments were also submitted by:

• Bob Allen (No Company Listed),
• Edwin Betz (No Company Listed),
• Liz Braund, Royal Robbins,
• Frank DeGuire, Meridian Industries, Inc.,
• Katherine Dutilh, Milliken,
• Sean Fahimian (No Company Listed),
• Scott Farmer, Berry Plastics Corporation,
• Darryl Fournier, Mogul South Carolina,
• Jessica Franken, INDA,
• Dmitry Konstantinovsky, Texollini,
• Jason Lough, Sontara Old Hickory Inc.,
• Susan J Mocarski, SJM Merchant Services, LLC,
• Sean Mulvaney, The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G),
• Daniel Nation, Parkdale, Inc.,
• Paul O'Day, AFMA,
• John Patterson, Lenzing Fibers Inc.,
• Richard Reid (No Company Listed),
• Randy Rudolph, Rockline Industries,
• Elizabeth Ruiz , Lenzing,
• Jeff Sellers, Jacob Holm Industries (America),
• Norman Sylvia, Suominen,
• Augustine Tantillo, NCTO,
• Daniel Tuttle (No Company Listed), and
• Amy Wolfteich (No Company Listed).

To read all the comments, go to www.regulations.gov, search for "USTR-2016-0025," then open the docket, view all comments, and search for "rayon."

20-Year Old US-EU Beef Threatens Duty Increase for Certain Rayon Fiber and Yarn

The EU bans the import of beef and beef products produced from animals to which any of six hormones have been administered for growth-promotion purposes. The effect of the EU ban is to prohibit the import of all but specially-produced U.S. beef and beef products. In February 1998, the WTO Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) in the EU-Beef case found that the ban was inconsistent with the obligations of the European Communities (now the EU) under the WTO Agreement. In July 1999, a WTO arbitrator determined that the EU import ban on U.S. beef and beef products had nullified or impaired U.S. benefits under the WTO Agreement in the amount of $116.8 million each year. On July 26, 1999, the DSB authorized the United States to suspend the application to the EU, and member States thereof, of WTO tariff concessions and related obligations covering trade in an amount of $116.8 million per year. Pursuant to that authorization, USTR announced a list of EU products that would be subject to a 100 percent rate of duty effective with respect to products entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption on or after July 29, 1999. See 64 FR 40638.

On May 13, 2009, the United States and the European Commission announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the EU-Beef case. See 74 FR 40864.

The MOU provided for the EU to make phased increases in market access by adopting a tariff-rate quota (TRQ) for beef produced without growth-promoting hormones (termed HQB products), in return for the United States making phased reductions in additional duties the United States had imposed consistent with WTO authorization. See 74 FR 40864. Both in accordance with the MOU and as a result of a decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, USTR terminated all additional duties on EU products, effective May 2011. See 76 FR 30987.

Under the second phase of the MOU, starting in August 2012, the EU increased the TRQ to 45,000 metric tons (MT). Although the EU has maintained this 45,000 MT TRQ for HQB products, it has not in practice provided benefits to the U.S. beef industry sufficient to compensate for the economic harm resulting from the EU ban on all but specially-produced U.S. beef. In particular, non-U.S. exporters of HQB products have been able to fill a substantial part of the 45,000 MT TRQ.

In February 2016, Congress passed and the President signed the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015. Among other things, the Act amended relevant provisions of the 1974 Trade Act to confirm that the Trade Representative may reinstate a previously terminated Section 301 action in order to exercise a WTO authorization to suspend trade concessions. In particular, the new Section 306(c) of the 1974 Trade Act permits the Trade Representative to reinstate a Section 301 action following (1) a request from the petitioner or any representative of the domestic industry that would benefit from reinstatement of action, (2) consultations under Section 306(d) of the Trade Act, and (3) a review under section 307(c) of the Trade Act.

On December 9, 2016, representatives of the U.S. beef industry invoked the new Section 306(c) of the 1974 Trade Act by filing a written request for reinstatement of action.

In order to assist in a possible reinstatement of the action in accordance with Section 306(c) of the 1974 Trade Act, and to provide information in connection with a review under Section 307(c) of the Act, the Section 301 Committee seeks public comments with respect to the specific EU products on the lists for increased import duties.

The list of products potential subject to increased duty is lengthy and includes two textile products:

• Viscose rayon staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, provided for in Subheading 5504.10.00 HTSUS, rate of duty 4.3%.

• Single yarn (other than sewing thread) containing 85% or more by weight of artificial staple fibers, not put up for retail sale, provided for in Subheading 5510.11.00 HTSUS, rate of duty 9%.

In the case of the fiber classified at 5504.10.00, total U.S. imports in 2015 were $174 million, of which imports from the EU were:

• Germany, $40 million
• Austria, $30 million
• United Kingdom, $260,000
• Czech Republic, $17,000
• Netherlands, $2,000
• Spain, $2,000

NOTE, that this fiber is the subject of several temporary duty suspension petitions recently filed as part of the new Miscellaneous Tariff Bill process and was formerly under duty suspensions.

In the case of the yarn classified at 5510.11.00, total U.S. imports in 2015 were $41 million, of which imports from the EU were:

• Spain, $700,000
• Belgium, $410,000
• Switzerland, $151,000
• Austria, $96,000
• Slovenia, $23,000
• France, $16,000
• United Kingdom, $6,000

Comments are due by Monday, January 30, 2017. There will be a hearing in Washington on Wednesday, February 15, 2017.

To see the full text of the Federal Register notice CLICK HERE

Agathon Associates Files Duty Suspensions

Agathon Associates filed 26 duty suspension petitions on behalf of six clients.

1365 Product: Woven fabric of vicuna

HTSUS: 5111.11.70

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Subset of 9902.12.23

Petitioner: Warren Corporation
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Woven fabrics containing 85 percent or more by weight of vicuna hair (provided for in subheadings 5111.11.70)

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1368 Product: Woven fabric of vicuna

HTSUS: 5111.19.60

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Subset of 9902.12.23

Petitioner: Warren Corporation
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Woven fabrics containing 85 percent or more by weight of vicuna hair (provided for in subheadings 5111.19.60)

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1372 Product: Woven fabric of vicuna

HTSUS: 5112.11.60

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Subset of 9902.12.23

Petitioner: Warren Corporation
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Woven fabrics containing 85 percent or more by weight of vicuna hair (provided for in subheadings 5112.11.60)

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1374 Product: Woven fabric of vicuna

HTSUS: 5112.19.95

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Subset of 9902.12.23

Petitioner: Warren Corporation
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Woven fabrics containing 85 percent or more by weight of vicuna hair (provided for in subheadings 5112.19.95)

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243 Product: Rayon top

HTSUS: 5507.00.00

Expired Provision: 9902.23.34

Petitioner: Jagger Brothers
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Staple fibers of rayon, carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, the foregoing presented in the form of top (provided for in heading 5507.00.00)

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708 Product: single yarn of viscose rayon

HTSUS: 5403.31.00

Expired Provision: 9902.26.12

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Artificial filament single yarn (other than sewing thread), not put up for retail sale, of viscose rayon, untwisted or with a twist not exceeding 120 turns/m (provided for in subheading 5403.31)

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709 Product: twisted yarn of viscose rayon

HTSUS: 5403.32.00

Expired Provision: 9902.54.04

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Single yarn of viscose rayon, with a twist exceeding 120 turns/m (provided for in subheading 5403.32.00)

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798 Product: High tenacity rayon yarn

HTSUS: 5403.10.30

Expired Provision: 9902.05.07

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: High tenacity single yarn of viscose rayon (provided for in subheading 5403.10.30) with a decitex equal to or greater than 1,000

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802 Product: High tenacity rayon yarn

HTSUS: 5403.10.30

Expired Provision: No

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: High tenacity yarn of viscose rayon; single yarn with a decitex less than 1,000 (provided for in subheading 5403.10.30)

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804 Product: High tenacity rayon yarn

HTSUS: 5403.10.60

Expired Provision: 9902.03.06

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: High tenacity multiple (folded) or cabled yarn of viscose rayon (provided for in subheading 5403.10.60)

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774 Product: alumina/silica fiber

HTSUS: 7019.19.30

Expired Provision: No

Petitioner: BGF Inudstries
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Glass fibers: Chopped strands, of a length more than 50 mm: derived from an alumina/silica hydrate, SIALOXOL, described by the chemical formula AlO_1.5@18[(SiO₂)_0.6(SiO_1.5OH)_0.4] (provided for in subheading 7019.19.30)

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776 Product: alumina/silica fiber

HTSUS: 7019.19.90

Expired Provision: No

Petitioner: BGF Industries
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Glass fibers: Sliver: derived from an alumina/silica hydrate, SIALOXOL, described by the chemical formula AlO_1.5@18[(SiO₂)_0.6(SiO_1.5OH)_0.4] (provided for in subheading 7019.19.90)

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174 Product: Yarn of combed cashmere or yarn of camel hair

HTSUS: 5108.20.80

Expired Provision: 9902.03.01

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Yarn of combed cashmere or yarn of camel hair (provided for in subheading 5108.20.80)

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1032 Product: Cashmere, not carded or combed

HTSUS: 5102.11.90

Expired Provision: 9902.22.77

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Fine animal hair of Kashmir (cashmere) goats , processed beyond the degreased or carbonized condition (provided for in subheading 5102.11.90)

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1033 Product: Camel hair, not carded or combed

HTSUS: 5102.19.20

Expired Provision: 9902.12.24

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Camel hair, not processed in any manner beyond the degreased or carbonized condition (provided for in subheading 5102.19.20)

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1036 Product: Yarn of carded cashmere, =>19.35 metric count

HTSUS: 5108.10.80

Expired Provision: 9902.03.02

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Yarn of carded cashmere of 19.35 metric yarn count or higher (provided for in subheading 5108.10.80)

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1038 Product: Yarn of carded cashmere, < 19.35 count

HTSUS: 5108.10.80

Expired Provision: 9902.40.85

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Yarn of carded hair of Kashmir (cashmere) goats, of yarn count less than 19.35 metric, not put up for retail sale (provided for in subheading 5108.10.80)

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1041 Product: Yarn of carded camel hair

HTSUS: 5108.10.80

Expired Provision: 9902.40.86

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Yarn of carded camel hair (provided for in subheading 5108.10.80)

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1044 Product: Noils of camel hair

HTSUS: 5103.10.00

Expired Provision: 9902.12.25

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Noils of camel hair (provided for in subheading 5103.10.00)

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1045 Product: Camel hair

HTSUS: 5102.19.90

Expired Provision: 9902.12.20

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Camel hair, processed beyond carbonized condition (provided for in subheading 5102.19.90)

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1046 Product: Cashmere, carded or combed

HTSUS: 5105.31.00

Expired Provision: No

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: cashmere, carded or combed (provided for in subheading 5105.31.00)

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1050 Product: Camel hair, carded or combed.

HTSUS: 5105.39.00

Expired Provision: 9902.12.22

Petitioner: American Woolen Company
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Camel hair, carded or combed (provided for in subheading 5105.39.00)

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2287 Product: Heavy weight fabric of modal/cotton blend

HTSUS: 5516.42.00

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Woven fabric of high wet modulus rayon fiber, containing less than 85% of high wet modulus rayon fiber, blended with Pima cotton, weighing more than 270 g/m2 but not more than 340 g/m2, of yarns of number 42 Nm or lower number, of a thread count of 150 to 160 per square centimeter, napped. The fabric is a subset of classification 5516.42.0060. The rayon is "Modal," a high wet modulus rayon fiber. According to Fairchild's Dictionary of Textiles it is: "rayon fiber having greater resistance to deformation when wet than does ordinary viscose rayon. Its physical structure, as a result of modification of the spinning process is more like that of cotton."
"
Petitioner: John Matouk & Co.
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Woven fabric of high wet modulus rayon fiber, containing less than 85% of high wet modulus rayon fiber, blended with cotton, weighing more than 270 g/m2 but not more than 340 g/m2, of yarns of number 42 Nm or lower number, of a thread count of 150 to 160 per square centimeter, napped. (provided for in subheading 5516.42.00)

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266 Product: acrylic fiber

HTSUS: 5506.30.00

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Subset of 9902.10.22

Petitioner: Jagger Brothers
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Acrylic staple fibers, carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning

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2275 Product: Modified acrylic flame retardant staple fiber

HTSUS: 5503.30.00

Expired Provision: No

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Acrylic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, containing >35% acrylonitrile and <85% acrylonitrile, 2.5 denier ± 2%, natural in color, with fiber Length between 38mm and 120mm (provided for in subheading 5503.30.00)

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2281 Product: Modified acrylic flame retardant staple fiber

HTSUS: 5503.30.00

Expired Provision: No

Petitioner: ICF Mercantile
Filer: Agathon Associates
Full discription: Acrylic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, containing >35% acrylonitrile and <85% acrylonitrile, 3.5 denier ± 2%, natural in color, with fiber Length between 38mm and 120mm (provided for in subheading 5503.30.00)

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IN ADDITION, our associate Glenn Page at FOREIGN TRADE ZONE SOLUTIONS filed five petitions.

1792 Product: Bleached pique fabric

HTSUS: 5211.20.29

Expired Provision: No
"Notes: Woven fabric of cotton/polyester blend, containing more than 50% but less 85% by weight of cotton, bleached, of pique weave, of width 290cm or greater. The fabric is a subset of classification 5211.20.2990 HTSUS. According to Fairchild's Dictionary of Textiles, 7th Edition: "Woven pique is a double cloth... Always made with more ends than picks, and requires six or more harnesses on the loom. ... The three major types of piques are: (1) true woven pique that has filling cords (wales) is made rarely in the U.S.; generally imported. It is a double cloth with two warps, one fine and one heavy; and two fillings, one fine and one heavy (the latter the stuffer yarn). ... ; (2) fancy¬ woven piques are also true piques made with two warps, one fine and one heavy, and two fillings, as above. ...; (3) domestic piques are made with the cords (wales) running warpwise and are, strictly speaking, lightweight BEDFORD CORD fabric. They are woven with either carded or combed yarns with two warps, one fine and one heavy (the latter the stuffer yarn) and two fillings, one fine and one heavy. None of these should be confused with PIQUES." (Full dictionary entry uploaded at Number 14.)
"
Petitioner: John Matouk & Co.
Filer: Foreign Trade Zone Solutions
Full discription: Woven fabric of cotton/polyester blend, containing more than 50% but less 85% by weight of cotton, bleached, of pique weave, of width 290 cm or greater (provided for in subheading 5211.20.29)

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1856 Product: Dyed pique fabric

HTSUS: 5211.39.00

Expired Provision: No
"Notes: Woven fabric of cotton/polyester blend, containing more than 50% but less 85% by weight of cotton, dyed, of pique weave, of width 290cm or greater. The fabric is a subset of classification 5211.39.0090 HTSUS. According to Fairchild's Dictionary of Textiles, 7th Edition: "Woven pique is a double cloth... Always made with more ends than picks, and requires six or more harnesses on the loom. ... The three major types of piques are: (1) true woven pique that has filling cords (wales) is made rarely in the U.S.; generally imported. It is a double cloth with two warps, one fine and one heavy; and two fillings, one fine and one heavy (the latter the stuffer yarn). ... ; (2) fancy woven piques are also true piques made with two warps, one fine and one heavy, and two fillings, as above. ...; (3) domestic piques are made with the cords (wales) running warpwise and are, strictly speaking, lightweight BEDFORD CORD fabric. They are woven with either carded or combed yarns with two warps, one fine and one heavy (the latter the stuffer yarn) and two fillings, one fine and one heavy. None of these should be confused with PIQUES." (Full dictionary entry uploaded at Number 14.)
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Petitioner: John Matouk & Co.
Filer: Foreign Trade Zone Solutions
Full discription: Woven fabric of cotton/polyester blend, containing more than 50% but less 85% by weight of cotton, dyed, of pique weave, of width 290cm or greater (provided for in subheading 5211.39.00)

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2345 Product: Cotton terry cloth, 200 cm wide or wider

HTSUS: 5802.19.00

Expired Provision:

Petitioner: John Matouk & Co.
Filer: Foreign Trade Zone Solutions
Full discription: Terry toweling and similar woven terry fabrics, of 100% cotton, bleached or dyed, of yarns of number 42 Nm or lower number, of width of 200 cm or wider. (provided for in subheading 5802.19.00)

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2353 Product: Woven fabric of 100% cotton, matelasse, bleached

HTSUS: 5209.29.00

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Woven fabric of 100% cotton, matelasse, woven with a puckered, blistered, or quilted appearance, of a width equal to or exceeding 290cm, bleached. The fabric is a subset of classification 5209.29.0090 HTSUS. According to Fairchild's Dictionary of Textiles: “Matelasse (matellasse) [mat-luh-say]. Word meaning cushioned or padded in French. 1. Originally a padded silk material; the ornamentation was produced by quilting in the loom. 2. A double or compound fabric: the quilted character and raised patterns are made on a jacquard or dobby loom. Crepe yarn and ordinary yarn are interlaced in the warp and filling, or only in the filling. In finishing, the crepe yarn shrinks and causes the ordinary yarn to pucker or blister to give the fabric a quilted or wadded effect. Some of the fabrics may have TINSEL YARNS worked into the pattern. Originally the fabric was made of cotton and used for men's vests; some cotton fabric is currently used for bedspreads. Now made of cotton, wool, or manufactured fibers. With manufactured fibers, one of the important recent uses has been for dress fabric. 3. A fabric that is made for use as upholstery with a mercerized cotton, ply-yarn warp and both manufactured fiber and heavy cotton ply-yarn filling, or it may have an all-manufactured fiber warp. Wherever the coarse filling yarn interlaces with the face fabric, it causes the remainder of the face to pucker, giving the quilted or blistered effect.”

Petitioner: John Matouk & Co.
Filer: Foreign Trade Zone Solutions
Full discription: Woven fabric of 100% cotton, matelasse, woven with a puckered, blistered, or quilted appearance, of a width equal to or exceeding 290cm, bleached (provided for in subheading 5209.29.00)

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2358 Product: Woven fabric of 100% cotton, matelasse, dyed

HTSUS: 5209.39.00

Expired Provision: No
Notes: Woven fabric of 100% cotton, matelasse, woven with a puckered, blistered, or quilted appearance, of a width equal to or exceeding 290cm, dyed. The fabric is a subset of classification 5209.39.0080 HTSUS. According to Fairchild's Dictionary of Textiles: “Matelasse (matellasse) [mat-luh-say]. Word meaning cushioned or padded in French. 1. Originally a padded silk material; the ornamentation was produced by quilting in the loom. 2. A double or compound fabric: the quilted character and raised patterns are made on a jacquard or dobby loom. Crepe yarn and ordinary yarn are interlaced in the warp and filling, or only in the filling. In finishing, the crepe yarn shrinks and causes the ordinary yarn to pucker or blister to give the fabric a quilted or wadded effect. Some of the fabrics may have TINSEL YARNS worked into the pattern. Originally the fabric was made of cotton and used for men's vests; some cotton fabric is currently used for bedspreads. Now made of cotton, wool, or manufactured fibers. With manufactured fibers, one of the important recent uses has been for dress fabric. 3. A fabric that is made for use as upholstery with a mercerized cotton, ply-yarn warp and both manufactured fiber and heavy cotton ply-yarn filling, or it may have an all-manufactured fiber warp. Wherever the coarse filling yarn interlaces with the face fabric, it causes the remainder of the face to pucker, giving the quilted or blistered effect.”

Petitioner: John Matouk & Co.
Filer: Foreign Trade Zone Solutions
Full discription: Woven fabric of 100% cotton, matelasse, woven with a puckered, blistered, or quilted appearance, of a width equal to or exceeding 290cm, dyed (provided for in subheading 5209.39.0080)

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If you have any questions about any of these petitions, call David Trumbull at 617-237-6008.