Wholly Formed Fabrics: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Definitions

Q: Why is the term important?

It determines eligibility for trade benefits and compliance with customs regulations.

Q: How can I ensure my products qualify?

Ensure all production processes occur in the U.S. or eligible countries and maintain proper documentation.

Definition & Meaning

Wholly formed fabrics refer to textiles that undergo all production processes within the United States or in designated beneficiary countries. This includes every step from the initial materials"such as polymers and fibers"to the final fabric, which can be created through methods like weaving, knitting, or felting. The term is significant in trade agreements, particularly under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which aims to promote economic development in eligible countries.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

This term is often used in international trade law and customs regulations. It is particularly relevant in the context of tariffs and trade agreements that encourage the use of fabrics produced in specific countries. Legal practitioners may encounter wholly formed fabrics in cases involving import duties, compliance with trade regulations, and eligibility for benefits under trade acts. Users can manage related forms and procedures using templates available through US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A textile company sources cotton in the U.S., processes it into yarn, and weaves it into fabric entirely within the U.S. This fabric qualifies as wholly formed.

Example 2: A manufacturer in a beneficiary country produces fabric from imported yarn and ships it to the U.S. for sale. If all production steps occurred in that country, it may also qualify as wholly formed (hypothetical example).

Relevant laws & statutes

The primary legal reference for wholly formed fabrics is found in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which outlines the criteria for textile imports from eligible countries. Other relevant regulations include Title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically 19 CFR 10.212.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in importing textiles or are a manufacturer, ensure that all production processes comply with the regulations for wholly formed fabrics. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that assist with compliance and documentation. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.

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Quick facts

Attribute	Details
Jurisdiction	U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Key Regulation	19 CFR 10.212
Eligible Countries	Designated beneficiary countries under AGOA

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What qualifies as wholly formed fabrics?

Fabrics that are produced entirely in the U.S. or in designated beneficiary countries, from raw materials to finished products.