February 17, 2009
News Release 09-012
Inv. No. Singapore FTA-103-22
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819

The United States International Trade Commission (ITC) is seeking input on a newly initiated investigation concerning proposed modifications of the U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (USSFTA) rules of origin.

The investigation, Certain Yarns and Fabrics FY 2009: Effect of Modification of the U.S.- Singapore Free Trade Agreement Rules of Origin, was requested by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in a letter received on January 28, 2009.

As requested, the ITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, will provide advice on the probable effect of the proposed USSFTA rules of origin modifications on U.S. trade and on domestic producers of the affected yarns and fabrics. Details on the products covered by the investigation can be obtained from the attachment to the request letter, which can be found on the ITC Internet site at http://www.usitc.gov/ind_econ_ana/research_ana/Ongoing_Inv/documents/103reqlwt.pdf.

The ITC expects to submit its advice to the USTR by August 4, 2009.

The ITC is seeking input for its new investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the articles for which the ITC is requested to provide information and advice. The ITC will not hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation; however, the ITC welcomes written submissions for the record. Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 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 May 19, 2009.

Further information on the scope of this investigation, the proposed rules of origin modifications, and the procedures for written submissions is available in the ITC's notice of investigation, dated February 17, 2009, which can be downloaded from the ITC Internet site (www.usitc.gov) or by contacting the Secretary at the above address.