Question

Despite interlocking import quotas, tariffs, and nontariff barriers, the share of apparel sold in the United States that is imported rose from about _________ in 1999 to about ________ today.

A. 10%; 25%
B. 25%; 50%
C. 50%; 75%
D. 75%; 90%

Answer 1

The share of apparel sold in the United States that is imported has risen significantly despite import quotas, tariffs, and nontariff barriers. This increase has had multiple effects, including a decline in U.S. jobs in textiles and apparel. However, import quotas and protectionism in the industry have resulted in higher costs for consumers.

Step-by-step explanation:

Despite import quotas, tariffs, and nontariff barriers, the share of apparel sold in the United States that is imported rose from about half in 1999 to about three-quarters today. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of U.S. jobs in textiles and apparel fell from 666,360 in 2007 to 385,240 in 2012, a 42% decline. Even more U.S. textile industry jobs would have been lost without tariffs. However, domestic jobs that are saved by import quotas come at a cost. Because textile and apparel protectionism adds to the costs of imports, consumers end up paying billions of dollars more for clothing each year.