Imports under pressure

摘要

Both the value and quantity of clothing imported into the United States fell during the first quarter of 2006, compared to the first quarter of 2005. Imports totalled US$16,421 million, down 3.0%, while the number of articles declined by 3.6% to 4,969 million. The year began with a slight increase in imports in January, but February imports were $564 million below February 2004 levels. The gap narrowed to $75 million in March, possibly signalling a return to growth during the second quarter. Currently, imports account for about 88% of US apparel consumption.