U.S. Commerce Dept. Chooses L.A. Firm for Textile IDs
The United States Department of Commerce has selected the DNA textile-marker solution of Los Angeles–based Applied DNA Sciences, Inc. to aid customs officials in identifying the origins of imported clothing and textiles for the government’s import-preference programs.
Applied DNA’s technology marks raw materials using various DNA forms that can later be identified and tracked to thwart counterfeiting. The government will use the technology to find exporters that are taking advantage of favored-nation trade laws.
The company said its DNA markers can remain embedded in fabric for more than 100 years and can withstand harsh textile processes, including desizing, scouring, bleaching, mercerizing, dyeing and finishing.
U.S. apparel import-preference programs require the use of U.S. fabrics and yarns, but the origin of fabrics is difficult to determine, said customs officials. In addition, apparel manufacturers and retailers have been losing substantial revenues every month as a result of counterfeit textile goods. Illegal textile imports have also cost jobs for thousands of U.S. textile workers and have cost the government millions of dollars in lost import tariffs and taxes, said a spokesperson for Applied DNA.
As part of the Bush administration’s ongoing effort to address trade challenges facing the U.S. textile industry, the Department of Commerce secured the expertise of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which recommended Applied DNA.
Dr. Glenn Allgood of Oak Ridge said Applied DNA was one of three candidates that provided cost-effective, turnkey solutions for the first phase of the textile-marker initiative. —Robert McAllister
