On 11 March 2024, the United States of America notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) Committee on Safeguards that it had, on 28 February 2024, initiated a safeguard investigation on fine denier polyester staple fibre, on which comment is due on 20 March 2024.
What is a safeguard investigation?
A safeguard investigation seeks to determine whether increased imports of a product are causing, or are threatening to cause, serious injury to a domestic industry.
During a safeguard investigation, importers, exporters and other interested parties may present evidence and views and respond to the presentations of other parties.
A WTO member may take a safeguard action (i.e. restrict imports of a product temporarily) only if the increased imports of the product are found to be causing, or threatening to cause, serious injury.