US Quota Integration

I. Schedule of USA Quota Integration by Phase

  • 1st January 1995 16.21 %

  • 1st January 1998 17.03 %

  • 1st January 2002 18.11 %

  • 1st January 2005 48.65 %

Many of the products integrated in Stage Two were never under quota (and of course all of the products in the US Stage One integration were never covered by a quota). Despite the best effort to delay all important liberalization until the very end of the 10 year phase-out which is at midnight, December 31, 2004, there are some important consumer products that will be removed from quota protection in 2002 for WTO members countries creating new trade opportunities.

II. 2002 Quota Elimination Categories

Textile exporters are likely to be able to increase their exports to USA next year when quota affecting items are eliminated in line with WTO rules. Liberated items include gloves, gown, caps, suits, womenswear, neckties, fabrics and yarn. 

The following categories will no longer be under quota in year 2002 :
331, 350, 359, 431, 459, 631, 649, 650, 659, 831, 833, 834, 835, 836, 838, 840, 842, 843, 844, 847, 850, 851, 858, 859, 222, 223, 621, 622, 810, 369, 464, 469, 666, 669, 670, 870, 870, 600, 606, 607, 800, 911.

III. Highlights for 3rd Phase Quota Removals

H Yarns - Several of the manmade fibre yarn categories - 600, 606, 607 will no longer 
be under quota. This offers some opportunities.
H Fabrics - Category 222 which is cotton and/or MMF Knit Fabrics
Currently, major suppliers to USA are Canada (55%) Korea (7%), Taiwan (7%) and Hong Kong (6%)
In category 223 cotton and /or MMF non-woven fabrics. Major suppliers are Canada (22%) and Israel (19%)
H Apparel - Potential areas where US consumers are likely to increase their purchases 
are Knit Shirts and Blouse (838) .

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