Quotas are explicit limits set on the amount of goods that can be imported during a specific time period. In the case of textiles and apparel this is normally in the form of bilateral agreements between the USA and various countries. However, it may also be unilaterally imposed by the USA if no agreement is reached.
Textile visa and export license requirements
A textile visa is an endorsement in the form of a stamp on an invoice or export control license which is executed by a foreign government. It is used to control the exportation of textiles and textile products to the United States and to prohibit the unauthorized entry of the merchandise into the country. A visa system is the most effective way to prevent illegal transhipments and quota fraud. It also ensures that both the foreign government and the United States count merchandise and charge quotas in the same way so that overshipments, incorrect quota charges and embargoes can be avoided.