import quota

Import quota refers to quantity stipulations set by the government to limit the volume of imported goods during a certain time period. In the United States, import quotas are established by legislation and executive orders. They are administered and enforced by Customs and Border Protection. There are three types of import quotas: absolute quotas, tariff rate quotas, and tariff preference levels. 

• Absolute quotas strictly limit the quantity and time period a good can be imported and sold in the United States.
• Tariff rate quotas limit the quantity of a good that can be consumed and sold at a reduced duty rate. Goods imported in excess of this quota must pay a higher duty rate.
• Tariff preference levels are similar to tariff rate quotas, but are specific to certain textile and apparel products.

For more information, see: 7 CFR Part 6 - Import Quotas and Fees, The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Import Quotas, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Commodities Subject to Import Quotas, and the EBSCO research starter on Import Quotas. 

[Last reviewed in March of 2026 by the Wex Definitions Team] 

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