All cotton imported into the United States, with a few exemptions, is assessed a fee at the time of entry. Whether the imported cotton is in the form of fabric, raw materials, t-shirts or denim jeans, the assessment fee on that cotton goes to fund the Cotton Research and Promotion Program. The brands, retailers, mills, and manufactures who import cotton and pay that fee are referred to as Importer stakeholders in the Program. And the Program works for them by helping to establish markets and consumer demand for cotton.

Importer Representation
The importers serving on The Cotton Board represent various major U.S. brands, retailers, and manufacturers. These importer representatives use their experience and expertise to help guide the activities of the Program.