GSP | United States International Trade Commission

September 24, 2019
News Release 19-094
Inv. No(s). 332-572
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Releases Report Concerning Proposed Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today released a public version of its confidential report on possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2018 Review (Investigation No. 332-572), was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

The USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, submitted a confidential version of the report to the USTR on September 9, 2019. The public version released today contains only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information deleted.

As requested, the USITC provided advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the removal from eligibility of two HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries.

The removals in consideration are:

3907.61.00 (Polyethylene terephthalate, having a viscosity number of 78 ml/g or higher) from Pakistan,
3907.69.00 (Polyethylene terephthalate, having a viscosity number less than 78 ml/g) from Pakistan.

In addition, the USITC provided advice on whether any industry in the United States is likely to be adversely affected by competitive need limitation waivers for two HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries and advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, as well as on consumers, of the requested waivers. The USITC also provided advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. "Competitive need limitations" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. With respect to the competitive need limit in section 503(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the 1974 Act, the USITC, as requested, will use the dollar value limit of $185 million. The HTS subheadings in consideration are:

3823.11.00 (Stearic acid) from Indonesia,
9001.50.00 (Spectacle lenses of materials other than glass, unmounted) from Thailand.

Finally, the USITC provided advice as to the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the redesignation of three HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries. The USITC also provided advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. The HTS subheadings in consideration are:

0603.13.00 (Orchids, fresh cut) from Thailand,
4412.10.05 (Plywood, veneered panels and similar laminated wood, of bamboo) from Indonesia,
4412.31.4155 (Plywood sheets n/o 6mm thick, with specified tropical wood outer ply, with face ply nesoi, not surface covered beyond clear/transparent) from Indonesia.

Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2018 Review (Investigation No. 332-572, USITC publication 4972, September 2019) is available on the USITC's Internet site at https://www.usitc.gov/sites/default/files/publications/332/pub4972.pdf.

USITC general factfinding investigations, such as this one, cover matters related to tariffs or trade and are generally conducted at the request of the U.S. Trade Representative, the House Committee on Ways and Means, or the Senate Committee on Finance. The resulting reports convey the Commission's objective findings and independent analyses on the subjects investigated. The Commission makes no recommendations on policy or other matters in its general factfinding reports. Upon completion of each investigation, the USITC submits its findings and analyses to the requester. General factfinding investigation reports are subsequently released to the public, unless they are classified by the requester for national security reasons.

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June 7, 2019
News Release 19-046
Inv. No(s). 332-572
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Begins Investigation Concerning Possible Modifications To The U.S. Generalized System of Preferences For Removals, Competitive Need Limitation Waivers, and Redesignations

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is seeking input for a newly initiated investigation concerning possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2018 Review, was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in a letter received on June 4, 2019.

As requested, the USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, will provide advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the removal from eligibility of two HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries.

The removals in consideration are:

3907.61.00 (Polyethylene terephthalate, having a viscosity number of 78 ml/g or higher) from Pakistan,
3907.69.00 (Polyethylene terephthalate, having a viscosity number less than 78 ml/g) from Pakistan.

The USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice on whether any industry in the United States is likely to be adversely affected by competitive need limitation waivers for two HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries and advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, as well as on consumers, of the requested waivers. The USITC will also provide advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. "Competitive need limitations" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. With respect to the competitive need limit in section 503(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the 1974 Act, the USITC, as requested, will use the dollar value limit of $185 million. The HTS subheadings in consideration are:

3823.11.00 (Stearic acid) from Indonesia,
9001.50.00 (Spectacle lenses of materials other than glass, unmounted) from Thailand.

Finally, the USTR requested that the USITC provide advice as to the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the redesignation of four HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries. The USITC will also provide advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. The HTS subheading in consideration is:

0603.13.00 (Orchids, fresh cut) from Thailand,
4412.10.05 (Plywood, veneered panels and similar laminated wood, of bamboo) from Indonesia,
4412.31.4155 (Plywood sheets n/o 6mm thick, with specified tropical wood outer ply, with face ply nesoi, not surface covered beyond clear/transparent) from Indonesia.
4418.73.40 (Assembled flooring panels of bamboo, other than for mosaic, multilayer, having a face ply more than 6mm in thickness) from Indonesia.

The USITC will submit its confidential report to USTR by September 7, 2019. As soon as possible thereafter, the USITC will, as requested by USTR, issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information and classified information deleted.

The USITC is seeking input for this investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the articles for which the USITC is requested to provide information and advice. The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation at 9:30 a.m. on July 2, 2019. Requests to appear at the public hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on June 18, 2019, with the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436.

The USITC also welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary to the Commission at the above address and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later than 5:15 p.m. on July 8, 2019. All written submissions, except for confidential business information, will be available for public inspection.

Further information on the scope of this investigation and appropriate submissions appears in the USITC’s notice of investigation, dated June 7, 2019. The notice can be obtained from the USITC Internet site (www.usitc.gov) or by contacting the Office of the Secretary at the above address or at 202-205-2000.

USITC general factfinding investigations, such as this one, cover matters related to tariffs or trade and are generally conducted at the request of the U.S. Trade Representative, the House Committee on Ways and Means, or the Senate Committee on Finance. The resulting reports convey the Commission's objective findings and independent analyses on the subjects investigated. The Commission makes no recommendations on policy or other matters in its general fact finding reports. Upon completion of each investigation, the USITC submits its findings and analyses to the requester. General fact finding investigation reports are subsequently released to the public, unless they are classified by the requester for national security reasons.

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September 28, 2018
News Release 18-115
Inv. No(s). 332-567
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Releases Report Concerning Proposed Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today released a public version of its confidential report on possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2017 Review (Investigation No. 332-567), was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

The USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, submitted a confidential version of the report to the USTR on September 7, 2018. The public version released today contains only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information deleted.

As requested, the USITC provided advice regarding the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and U.S. consumers of the addition of the following Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings to the list of GSP-eligible products for all GSP beneficiary developing countries:

0808.30.40 (Pears, fresh, if entered during the period from July 1 through the following March 31, inclusive),

0814.00.80 (Peel of citrus fruit, excl. orange or citron and peel, nesi, of melon, fresh, frozen, dried or provisionally preserved),

1207.29.00 (Cotton seeds, whether or not broken, other than seed for sowing),

1512.11.00 (Sunflower-seed or safflower oil, crude, and their fractions, whether or not refined, not chemically modified),

2008.99.05 (Apples, otherwise prepared or preserved, nesi),

2918.99.05 (p-Anisic acid; clofibrate and 3-phenoxybenzoic acid),

2918.99.43 (Aromatic carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function and their anhydrides, halide, etc deriv described in add US note 3 to sect VI, nesoi),

2918.99.47 (Other aromatic carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function and their anhydrides, halide, etc deriv (excluding goods in add US note 3 to sec VI)),

4010.33.30 (Transmission V-belts of vulcanized rubber, V-ribbed, circumference exceeding 180 cm but not exceeding 240 cm, combined with textile materials).

The USITC also provided advice regarding the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and U.S. consumers of the removal from eligibility of two HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries:

2009.89.6011 and 2009.89.6019 (Cherry juice - Part of 2009.89.60 "Juice of any other single fruit, nesoi") from Turkey,

3920.51.50 (Nonadhesive plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, noncellular, not combined with other materials, of polymethyl methacrylate, not flexible) from Indonesia and Thailand.

The USITC also provided advice as to whether any industry in the United States is likely to be adversely affected by competitive need limitation waivers for certain countries and the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, as well as on consumers, of the requested waivers. The USITC also provided advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. "Competitive need limitations" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. With respect to the competitive need limit in section 503(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the 1974 Act, the USITC, as requested, used the dollar value limit of $180 million. The HTS subheadings considered are:

0410.00.00 (Edible products of animal origin, nesi) from Indonesia,

2836.91.00 (Lithium carbonates) from Argentina,

3301.13.00 (Essential oils of lemon) from Argentina,

6802.99.00 (Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, nesoi, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi) from Brazil),

7202.50.00 (Ferrosilicon chromium) from Kazakhstan.

The USITC also provided advice regarding the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and U.S. consumers of the redesignation for certain countries of the following HTS subheadings:

2007.99.48 (Apple, quince and pear pastes and purees, being cooked preparations) from Argentina,

2306.30.00 (Oilcake and other solid residues, resulting from the extraction of vegetable fats or oils, of sunflower seeds) from Argentina,

2841.90.20 (Ammonium perrhenate) from Kazakhstan,

2909.50.40 (Odoriferous or flavoring compounds of ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols & their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, nitrosated derivatives) from Indonesia,

4107.11.80 (Full grain unsplit whole bovine (not buffalo) nesoi and equine leather nesoi, w/o hair, prepared after tanning or crusting, fancy, not 4114) from Argentina,

6802.93.00 (Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, of granite, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi) from India.

In addition, the USITC provided advice regarding the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and U.S. consumers of the redesignation of articles for two countries. The USITC also provided advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. The HTS subheadings considered are:

7202.93.80 (Ferroniobium, nesoi) from Brazil,

4412.31.41 including 4412.31.4150 and 4412.31.4160 (Plywood sheets n/o 6mm thick, with specified tropical wood outer ply, with face ply nesoi, not surface covered beyond clear/transparent) from Indonesia.

Finally, the USITC provided advice regarding the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and U.S. consumers of the denial of a de minimis competitive need limitation waiver for one article from a GSP beneficiary country. The USITC also provided advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for this article. The HTS subheading considered is:

3802.90.10 (Bone black) from Brazil.

Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2017 Review (Investigation No. 332-567, USITC publication 4827, September 2018) is available on the USITC's Internet site at https://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/pub4827.pdf.

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May 23, 2018
News Release 18-060
Inv. No(s). 332-567
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Begins Investigation Concerning Possible Modification to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is seeking input for a newly initiated investigation concerning possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2017 Review (Investigation No. 332-567), was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in a letter received on May 18, 2018.

As requested, the USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, will provide advice as to the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the addition of the following Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings to the list of GSP-eligible products:

For all GSP beneficiary developing countries:

0808.30.40 (Pears, fresh, if entered during the period from July 1 through the following March 31, inclusive),
0814.00.80 (Peel of citrus fruit, excl. orange or citron and peel, nesi, of melon, fresh, frozen, dried or provisionally preserved),
1207.29.00 (Cotton seeds, whether or not broken, other than seed for sowing),
1512.11.00 (Sunflower-seed or safflower oil, crude, and their fractions, whether or not refined, not chemically modified),
2008.99.05 (Apples, otherwise prepared or preserved, nesi),
2918.99.05 (p-Anisic acid; clofibrate and 3-phenoxybenzoic acid),
2918.99.43 (Aromatic carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function and their anhydrides, halide, etc deriv described in add US note 3 to sect VI, nesoi),
2918.99.47 (Other aromatic carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function and their anhydrides, halide, etc deriv (excluding goods in add US note 3 to sec VI)),
4010.33.30 (Transmission V-belts of vulcanized rubber, V-ribbed, circumference exceeding 180 cm but not exceeding 240 cm, combined with textile materials).

The USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the removal from eligibility of two HTS subheadings for certain GSP countries.

The removals in consideration are:

2009.89.6011 and 2009.89.6019 (Cherry juice – Part of 2009.89.60 “Juice of any other single fruit, nesoi”) from Turkey,
3920.51.50 (Nonadhesive plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, noncellular, not combined with other materials, of polymethyl methacrylate, not flexible) from Indonesia and Thailand.

The USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice on whether any industry in the United States is likely to be adversely affected by competitive need limitation waivers for certain countries and advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, as well as on consumers, of the requested waivers. The USITC will also provide advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for these articles. "Competitive need limitations" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. With respect to the competitive need limit in section 503(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the 1974 Act, the USITC, as requested, will use the dollar value limit of $180 million. The HTS subheadings in consideration are:

0410.00.00 (Edible products of animal origin, nesi) from Indonesia,
2836.91.00 (Lithium carbonates) from Argentina,
3301.13.00 (Essential oils of lemon) from Argentina,
6802.99.00 (Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, nesoi, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi) from Brazil),
7202.50.00 (Ferrosilicon chromium) from Kazakhstan.

The USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice as to the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the redesignation for certain countries of the following HTS subheadings:

2007.99.48 (Apple, quince and pear pastes and purees, being cooked preparations) from Argentina,
2306.30.00 (Oilcake and other solid residues, resulting from the extraction of vegetable fats or oils, of sunflower seeds) from Argentina,
2841.90.20 (Ammonium perrhenate) from Kazakhstan,
2909.50.40 (Odoriferous or flavoring compounds of ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols & their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, nitrosated derivatives) from Indonesia,
4107.11.80 (Full grain unsplit whole bovine (not buffalo) nesoi and equine leather nesoi, w/o hair, prepared after tanning or crusting, fancy, not 4114) from Argentina,
6802.93.00 (Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, of granite, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi) from India,
7202.93.80 (Ferroniobium, nesoi) from Brazil.

In addition, the USTR requested that USITC provide advice as to the probable economic effect on U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the redesignation of an article for one country. The USITC will also provide advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for this article. The HTS subheading in consideration is:

4412.31.41 including 4412.31.4150 and 4412.31.4160 (Plywood sheets n/o 6mm thick, with specified tropical wood outer ply, with face ply nesoi, not surface covered beyond clear/transparent) from Indonesia.

Finally, the USTR requested that the USITC provide advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, on U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers, of the denial of a de minimis competitive need limitation waiver for one article from a GSP beneficiary country. The USITC will also provide advice as to whether a like or directly competitive article was produced in the United States in any of the preceding three calendar years for this article. The HTS subheading in consideration is:

3802.90.10 (Bone black) from Brazil.

The USITC will submit its confidential report to USTR by September 7, 2018. As soon as possible thereafter, the USITC will, as requested by USTR, issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information and classified information deleted.

The USITC is seeking input for this investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the articles for which the USITC is requested to provide information and advice. The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation at 9:30 a.m. on June 14, 2018. Requests to appear at the public hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on June 4, 2018, with the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436.

The USITC also welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary to the Commission at the above address and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later than 5:15 p.m. on June 21, 2018. All written submissions, except for confidential business information, will be available for public inspection.

Further information on the scope of this investigation and appropriate submissions appears in the USITC’s notice of investigation, dated on May 23, 2018. The notice can be obtained from the USITC Internet site (www.usitc.gov) or by contacting the Office of the Secretary at the above address or at 202-205-2000.

# # #

June 6, 2017
News Release 17-084
Inv. No(s). 332-560
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Releases Report Concerning Possible Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences for Additions, Removals, and Competitive Need Limitation Waivers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today released a public version of its confidential report on possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2016 Review, was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

The USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, submitted a confidential version of the report to the USTR on May 5, 2016. The USTR requested that the USITC issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information deleted.

As requested, the USITC provided advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the addition of the following Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings for all beneficiary developing countries under GSP:

1104.19.90 (Rolled or flaked grains of cereals, other than of barley or oats),
2008.20.00 (Pineapples, otherwise prepared or preserved, nesi),
2915.9018 (Saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, nesoi),
3809.93.50 (Finishing agents, dye carriers and other preparations used in leather and like industries, <5% by weight aromatic (mod.) substance(s)),
3192.20.00 (Cellulose nitrates (including collodions, in primary forms)).

* nesoi and nesi – not elsewhere specified or indicated

The USITC also provided advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the removal from eligibility of one HTS statistical reporting number for all countries:

2922.49.40.20 (Glycine – part of 2922.49.40, “Amino acids”)

The USITC also provided advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, U.S. consumers, and competing U.S. industries of competitive need limitation waivers specified in section 503(c)(2)(A) of the Trade Act of 1974 for 4 Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings. "Competitive need limits" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. The USITC was requested to use the dollar figure of $175 million for the competitive need limitation. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. The HTS subheading and specified country for which the USITC provided advice is:

4409.10.05 (Coniferous wood continuously shaped along any of its ends, whether or not also continuously shaped along any {of} its edges or faces) from Brazil.

Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2016 Review (Investigation No. 332-560, USITC publication 4692, May 2017) is available on the USITC's Internet site at https://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/pub4692.pdf.

USITC general factfinding investigations cover matters related to tariffs or trade and are generally conducted at the request of the U.S. Trade Representative, the House Committee on Ways and Means, or the Senate Committee on Finance. The resulting reports convey the Commission's objective findings and independent analyses on the subjects investigated. The Commission makes no recommendations on policy or other matters in its general factfinding reports. Upon completion of each investigation, the USITC submits its findings and analyses to the requester. General factfinding investigation reports are subsequently released to the public, unless they are classified by the requester for national security reasons.

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January 17, 2017
News Release 17-012
Inv. No(s). 332-560
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Begins Investigation Concerning Possible Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences for Additions, Removals, and Competitive Need Limitation Waivers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is seeking input for a newly initiated investigation concerning possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2016 Review (Investigation No. 332-560), was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in a letter received on January 4, 2017.

As requested, the USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, fact finding federal agency, will provide advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the addition of the following Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings and statistical reporting numbers:

For all GSP beneficiary developing countries:

1104.19.90 (Rolled or flaked grains of cereals, other than of barley or oats),
2008.20.00 (Pineapples, otherwise prepared or preserved, nesi),
2915.90.18 (Saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, nesoi),
3809.93.50 (Finishing agents, dye carriers and other preparations used in leather and like industries, < 5% by weight aromatic (mod.) substance(s)),
3912.20.00 (Cellulose nitrates (including collodions), in primary forms).

The USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the removal from eligibility of one HTS subheading for all GSP countries. The removal in consideration is:

2922.49.40.20 (Glycine--part of 2922.49.40, "Amino acids")

In addition, the USITC will provide advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of competitive need limitation waivers for specified countries. "Competitive need limitations" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. With respect to the competitive need limit in section 503(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the 1974 Act, the USITC, as requested, will use the dollar value limit of $175 million. The HTS subheadings in consideration are:

0410.00.00 (Edible products of animal origin, nesi) from Indonesia,
0714.90.10 (Fresh or chilled dasheens, whether or not sliced or in the form of pellets) from Ecuador,
4011.20.10 (New pneumatic radial tires, of rubber, of a kind used on buses or trucks) from Indonesia,
4409.10.05 (Coniferous wood continuously shaped along any of its ends, whether or not also continuously shaped along any {of} its edges or faces) from Brazil,
6802.99.00 (Monumental or building stone & arts. thereof, nesoi, further worked than simply cut/sawn, nesoi) from Brazil,
8525.80.30 (Television cameras, nesi) from Thailand,
9001.50.00 (Spectacle lenses of materials other than glass, unmounted) from Thailand.

The USITC will submit its confidential report to USTR by May 4, 2017. As soon as possible thereafter, the USITC will, as requested by USTR, issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information and classified information deleted.

The USITC is seeking input for this investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the articles for which the USITC is requested to provide information and advice. The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation at 9:30 a.m. on February 21, 2017. Requests to appear at the public hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on February 3, 2017, with the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436.

The USITC also welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary to the Commission at the above address and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later than 5:15 p.m. on March 3, 2017. All written submissions, except for confidential business information, will be available for public inspection.

Further information on the scope of this investigation and appropriate submissions appears in the USITC’s notice of investigation, dated January 17, 2017. The notice can be obtained from the USITC Internet site (www.usitc.gov) or by contacting the Office of the Secretary at the above address or at 202-205-2000.

USITC general fact finding investigations, such as this one, cover matters related to tariffs or trade and are generally conducted at the request of the U.S. Trade Representative, the House Committee on Ways and Means, or the Senate Committee on Finance. The resulting reports convey the Commission's objective findings and independent analyses on the subjects investigated. The Commission makes no recommendations on policy or other matters in its general fact finding reports. Upon completion of each investigation, the USITC submits its findings and analyses to the requester. General fact finding investigation reports are subsequently released to the public, unless they are classified by the requester for national security reasons.

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May 27, 2016
News Release 16-060
Inv. No(s). 332-556
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Releases Report Concerning Possible Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences for Additions, Removals, and Competitive Need Limitation Waivers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) today released a public version of its confidential report on possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2015 Review (Investigation No. 332-556), was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

The USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, submitted a confidential version of the report to the USTR on April 26, 2016. The USTR requested that the USITC issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information deleted.

For all GSP-eligible countries:

2204.21.20 (effervescent wine),
3301.13.00 (essential oil of lemon), and
7202.11.50 (ferromanganese containing by weight more than 4 percent of carbon).

For least-developed beneficiary developing countries (LDBDC), African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) beneficiary developing countries, and both these country groupings combined:

29 HTS subheadings for certain handbags and travel goods products (4202.11.00, 4202.11.00.30, 4202.11.0090, 4202.12.2020, 4202.12.2050, 4202.12.40, 4202.12.8030, 4202.12.8070, 4202.21.60, 4202.21.90, 4202.22.15, 4202.22.45, 4202.22.8050, 4202.31.60, 4202.32.40, 4202.32.80, 4202.32.9550, 4202.32.9560, 4202.91.0030, 4202.91.0090, 4202.92.15, 4202.92.20, 4202.92.3020, 4202.92.3031, 4202.92.3091, 4202.92.45, 4202.92.9026, 4202.92.9060, and 4202.99.90).

The USITC also provided advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the removal of 5 HTS subheadings for specified countries:

3204.20.10 (fluorescent brightening agent 32) from India and Indonesia,
3204.20.80 (other fluorescent brightening agents) from India and Indonesia,
3907.60.00 (PET resin also known as polyethylene terephthalate in primary forms) from India,
3920.62.00 (nonadhesive plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, noncellular, of polyethylene terephthalate) from Brazil, and
3921.90.40 (nonadhesive plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, flexible, nesoi*, of noncellular plastics) from Brazil.

The USITC also provided advice on the likely impact on competing U.S. industries of competitive need limitation waivers specified in section 503(c)(2)(A) of the Trade Act of 1974 for 4 Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings. "Competitive need limits" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. The USITC was requested to use the dollar figure of $170 million for the competitive need limitation. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. The four HTS subheadings and specified countries that the USITC provided advice are:

0804.10.60 (dates, fresh or dried, whole, without pits, packed in units weighing over 4.6 kg) from Tunisia,
2102.20.60 (single-cell micro-organisms, dead, excluding yeasts, but not including vaccines of heading 3002) from Brazil,
2202.90.90 (nonalcoholic beverages, nesi*, not including fruit or vegetable juices of heading 2009) from Thailand, and
8708.50.95 (parts and accessories of motor vehicle of 8701, nesoi, 8702 and 8704-8705, half-shafts) from India.

* nesoi and nesi – not elsewhere specified or indicated

The Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2015 Review (Investigation No. 332-556, USITC publication 4609, May 2016) is available on the USITC's Internet site at https://www.usitc.gov/publications/332/pub4609.pdf.

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January 19, 2016
News Release 16-013
Inv. No(s). 332-556
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

Scope Change: USITC Adds Five Additional Articles to Investigation Concerning Possible Modifications to the U.S. GSP for Additionals, Removals, and Competitive Need Limitation Waivers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has revised the scope for a recently initiated investigation concerning possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2015 Review (Investigation No. 332-556), was initiated on January 11, 2016, on the basis of a request by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

The revision was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative in a letter received on January 12, 2016. The letter asked the USITC to add to the investigation five additional statistical reporting numbers related to certain handbags and travel goods products that are being considered for addition to the list of GSP-eligible products.

The five HTS additional statistical reporting numbers are:

4202.92.30.20;
4202.92.30.31;
4202.92.30.91;
4202.92.90.26 and;
4202.92.90.60.

As requested, the USITC will provide its advice as to the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, U.S. industries producing like or directly competitive articles, and on U.S. consumers of the elimination of U.S. import duties on the five articles for all beneficiary developing countries under the GSP program, least-developed beneficiary developing countries (LDBDCs), beneficiary developing countries of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and both LDBDCs and AGOA beneficiary developing countries combined under the GSP program.

In addition, the USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice with respect to whether like or directly competitive products were being produced in the United States on January 1, 1995, for the additional five articles as well as all of the products being considered for addition to and removal from the list of GSP-eligible products listed in Tables A and B of the Annex to the December 30, 2015, request letter.

No dates have changed in the investigation. The USITC will submit its confidential report to USTR by April 28, 2016. As soon as possible thereafter, the USITC will, as requested by USTR, issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information and classified information deleted.

A public hearing will be held on February 24, 2016, and requests to appear at the hearing must be received by 5:15 p.m. on February 1, 2016. Written submissions must be received no later than 5:15 p.m. on February 29, 2016.

Further information on the revised scope of this investigation and appropriate submissions appears in the USITC’s notice of expansion of scope, dated January 19, 2015. Information on the original investigation can be found in the USITC’s notice of investigation, dated January 12, 2016. Both notices can be obtained from the USITC Internet site (www.usitc.gov) or by contacting the Office of the Secretary at the above address or at 202-205-2000.

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January 12, 2016
News Release 16-009
Inv. No(s). 332-556
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Begins Investigation Concerning Possible Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences for Additions, Removals, and Competitive Need Limitation Waivers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is seeking input for a newly initiated investigation concerning possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2015 Review (Investigation No. 332-556), was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in a letter received on December 30, 2015.

As requested, the USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, will provide advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the addition of the following Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings and statistical reporting numbers:

For all GSP-eligible countries:

2204.21.20 (effervescent wine),
3301.13.00 (essential oils of lemon),
7202.11.50 (ferromanganese containing by weight more than 4 percent of carbon).

For all GSP-eligible countries, least-developed beneficiary developing countries (LDBDC), and/or African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) beneficiary developing countries:

24 HTS subheadings and statistical reporting numbers for certain handbags and travel goods products (4202.11.00, 4202.11.0030, 4202.11.0090, 4202.12.40, 4202.21.60, 4202.21.90, 4202.22.15, 4202.22.45, 4202.31.60, 4202.32.40, 4202.32.80, 4202.92.15, 4202.92.20, 4202.92.45, 4202.99.90, 4202.12.2020, 4202.12.2050, 4202.12.8030, 4202.12.8070, 4202.22.8050, 4202.32.9550, 4202.32.9560, 4202.91.0030, and 4202.91.0090).

The USTR also requested that the USITC provide advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of the removal of five HTS subheadings for specified countries. The removals in consideration are:

3204.20.10 (fluorescent brightening agent 32) from India and Indonesia,
3204.20.80 (other fluorescent brightening agents) from India and Indonesia,
3907.60.00 (PET resin also known as polyethylene terephthalate in primary forms) from India,

3920.62.00 (nonadhesive plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, noncellular, of polyethylene terephthalate) from Brazil,
3921.90.40 (nonadhesive plates, sheets, film, foil and strip, flexible, nesoi, of noncellular plastics) from Brazil.

In addition, the USITC will provide advice on the likely impact on U.S. imports, competing U.S. industries, and U.S. consumers of competitive need limitation waivers for specified countries. "Competitive need limitations" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted. With respect to the competitive need limit in section 503(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the 1974 Act, the USITC, as requested, will use the dollar value limit of $170 million. The eight HTS subheadings in consideration are:

0804.10.60 (dates, fresh or dried, whole, without pits, packed in units weighing over 4.6 kg) from Tunisia,
1509.1040 (virgin olive oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, not chemically modified, weighing with the immediate container 18 kg or over) from Tunisia,
2102.20.60 (single-cell micro-organisms, dead, excluding yeasts, but not including vaccines of heading 3002) from Brazil,
2202.90.90 (nonalcoholic beverages, nesoi, not including fruit or vegetable juices of heading 2009) from Thailand,
2804.29.00 (rare gases, other than argon) from Ukraine,
4202.92.04 (insulated beverage bag with outer surface textiles, interior only flexible plastic container storing/dispensing beverage thru flexible tubing) from Philippines,
6911.10.37 (porcelain or china, other than bone china, household table and kitchenware in sets in which aggregate value of articles are over $56, but not over $200) from Indonesia, and
8708.50.95 (parts and accessories of motor vehicle of 8701, nesoi, 8702 and 8704-8705, half-shafts) from India.

The USITC will submit its confidential report to USTR by April 28, 2016. As soon as possible thereafter, the USITC will, as requested by USTR, issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information and classified information deleted.

The USITC is seeking input for its new investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the articles for which the USITC is requested to provide information and advice. The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation at 9:30 a.m. on February 24, 2016. Requests to appear at the public hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on February 1, 2016, with the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436.

The USITC also welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary to the Commission at the above address and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later than 5:15 p.m. on February 29, 2016. All written submissions, except for confidential business information, will be available for public inspection.

Further information on the scope of this investigation and appropriate submissions appears in the USITC’s notice of investigation, dated January 12, 2015. The notice can be obtained from the USITC Internet site (www.usitc.gov) or by contacting the Office of the Secretary at the above address or at 202-205-2000.

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July 13, 2015
News Release 15-058
Inv. No(s). 332-554
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

USITC Begins Investigation Concerning Possible Modifications to the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences and Competitive Need Limitation Waivers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) is seeking input for a newly initiated investigation concerning possible modifications to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

The investigation, Generalized System of Preferences: Possible Modifications, 2014 Review, was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

As requested, the USITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, will provide advice on the likely impact on competing U.S. industries of competitive need limitation waivers specified in section 503(c)(2)(A) of the Trade Act of 1974 for two Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheadings for Thailand. "Competitive need limits" represent the maximum import level of a product that is eligible for duty-free treatment under the GSP. Once the limit is reached, trade is considered "competitive," benefits are no longer needed, and imports of the article become ineligible for GSP treatment, unless a waiver is granted.

The HTS subheadings being considered for competitive need limitation waivers are: 2008.19.15 (coconuts, otherwise prepared or preserved, nesoi) from Thailand and 7408.29.10 (copper alloys (o/than brass, cupro-nickel or nickel-silver), wire, coated or plated with metal) from Thailand. The USITC will also provide advice with respect to whether like or directly competitive products were being produced in the United States on January 1, 1995, and the probable economic effect on total U.S. imports, as well as on consumers, of the requested waivers. The USITC will provide the requested data separately and individually for each U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule subheading subject to this request.

The USITC also will provide data on the addition of five HTS subheadings for least-developed developing beneficiary countries (LDDBC); the data will include U.S. production, imports, exports, and consumption figures for five cotton articles for the period 2012-2014.

The HTS subheadings being considered are: 5201.00.18 (cotton, not carded or combed, having a staple length under 28.575 mm (1-1/8 inches), n/harsh or rough, nesoi); 5201.00.28 (cotton not carded or combed, harsh or rough, staple length of 29.36875 mm or more but under 34.925 mm & white in color, nesoi); 5201.00.38 (cotton, not carded or combed, staple length of 28.575 mm or more but under 34.925 mm, nesoi); 5202.99.30 (cotton card strips made from cotton waste having staple length under 30.1625 mm & lap, sliver & roving waste, nesoi); and 5203.00.30 (cotton fibers, carded or combed, of cotton fiber processed, but not spun, nesoi).

The USITC will submit its confidential report to USTR by August 28, 2015. As soon as possible thereafter, as requested by the USTR, the USITC will issue a public version of the report containing only the unclassified sections, with any business confidential information and classified information deleted.

The USITC is seeking input for its new investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the articles for which the USITC is requested to provide information and advice. The USITC welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary to the Commission at 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436 and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later than 5:15 p.m. on July 30, 2015.

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