“This is a case where our U.S. government needs to really evaluate our border security and import verification systems. By better targeting these shipments and players through an effective risk assessment program, you can better facilitate trade and properly manage enforcement,” said Cass Johnson, President, National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO).
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection currently collects more than $25 billion in duties annually; with more than 42% of the duties collected through textile and apparel imports. As a result, the U.S. Customs continues to designate the industry as a Priority Trade Issue for the department.
“The entire U.S. textile supply chain benefits when trade enforcement becomes more reliable. This legislation establishes a clear, firm national priority for effective and efficient enforcement, assuring that honest players will not be unfairly disadvantaged by fraudulent competitors. TESA's passage will bring immediate positive results to companies, workers, and their communities. The American Fiber Manufacturers Association urges swift enactment,” said Paul T. O'Day, President & Counsel, American Fiber Manufactures Association (AFMA).
“Robust customs enforcement is another 'must have' to encourage investment in the United States and elsewhere in North America. TESA provides assurance to U.S. producers that U.S. Customs will have the tools they need to stop job-destroying fraud and other criminal activity. That's the kind of government action that can help create U.S. jobs,” said Auggie Tantillo, Executive Director, American Manufacturing Trade Action Coalition (AMTAC).
“Too many hardworking men and women in the U.S. textile and apparel industry have lost their jobs to unfair trade practices like customs fraud. For the 400,000 Americans still working in the sector, cracking down on customs fraud would send a strong signal that Congress is serious about jobs,” said Eddie Smith, Chairman, National Cotton Council (NCC).
National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)