Impact of Import Restrictions on Polyester Fiber to be Assessed

The International Trade Commission has instituted an investigation for the purpose of preparing a report on developments in the domestic industry following the imposition of a Section 201 safeguard measure on imports of fine denier polyester staple fiber. Fine denier PSF is used in the manufacture of yarn, apparel, sanitary products, non-woven fabrics (wipes, suit interlinings, mattresses, etc.), carpets, upholstery, and other items.

This safeguard was imposed in November 2024 after the ITC concluded that this fiber was being imported into the U.S. in such increased quantities as to be a substantial cause or threat of serious injury to the domestic industry producing a like or directly competitive article. It consists of a quota, set at zero in the first year and increased by one million pounds in each of three subsequent years, on imports of fine denier PSF entered as a temporary importation under bond under HTSUS 5503.20.00 and described in HTSUS 5503.20.0025 or 9813.00.0520.

The quota applies to fine denier PSF, not carded or combed, measuring less than 3.3 decitex (three denier) in diameter, whether coated or uncoated. Imports from Canada, Mexico, Australia, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, Panama, Peru, Singapore, CAFTA-DR countries, and beneficiary countries and territories under the Generalized System of Preferences and the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act are not subject to the quota, provided certain conditions are met.

The ITC will hold a public hearing in connection with this investigation on Oct. 1. Pre-hearing briefs are due by Sept. 24, requests to appear at the hearing are due by Sept. 25, a conference for those wishing to make an oral presentation at the hearing will be held Sept. 28. Post-hearing briefs are due by Oct. 8 and the ITC’s report to the president and Congress is due by Nov. 23.