TBT-12-002 / QBT-12-505: Expiration of CAFTA-DR Cumulation for Dominican Republic

REFERENCE:   

• QBT-12-505 Expiration of CAFTA-DR Cumulation for Dominican Republic                          
• TBT-08-015-01

BACKGROUND

Pursuant to General Note 29 (d)(vii) of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), the U.S.-Central America and Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) permits qualifying apparel classified in Chapter 62 to enter the United States duty-free using the agreement’s cumulation provisions by indicating the applicable Chapter 98 provision, HTS number 9822.05.11 or 9822.05.13, on the CBP 7501 at the time of entry summary.  CAFTA-DR cumulation provisions permit certain materials to be sourced from Mexico.

This memo serves as notice that CBP has been advised, effective March 1, 2012, the Dominican Republic lost its eligibility to use the CAFTA-DR cumulation provisions.  A Presidential Proclamation to amend the HTS, as necessary to implement this change, is forthcoming. 

Claims for preference on woven apparel from the Dominican Republic based on the above mentioned cumulation provisions filed on or after March 1, 2012, will be assessed duty as non-originating goods.

To view TBT-12-002 in its entirety click on PDF.

INFORMATION

Questions related to this TBT/QBT can be directed to Quota Enforcement and Administration Branch at HQ Quota and the Textile Enforcement and Policy Branch.