| Quantitative Restrictions |
Explicit limits, or quotas, on the physical amounts of particular commodities that can be imported or exported during a specified time period, usually measured by volume but sometimes by value. The quota may be applied on a selective basis, with varying limits set according to the country of origin or destination, or on a quantitative global basis that only specifies the total limit and thus tends to benefit more efficient suppliers. |
| Quarantine |
1. The term during which an arriving ship or airplane, including its passengers, crew and cargo, suspected of carrying a contagious disease, is held in isolation to prevent the possible spread of the disease.
2. The place in which a person or carrier under quarantine is held. |
| Quay |
A structure built for the purpose of mooring a vessel; also called a pier. |
| Queue |
A line of people, vehicles etc., especially a waiting line as before a ticket window or a toll booth. |
| Quid Pro Quo |
1. A mutual consideration; securing an advantage or receiving a concession in return for a similar favor.
2. A mutual consideration which passes between the parties to a contract, and which renders it valid and binding. |
| Quota |
A limitation on the quantity of goods that may be imported into a country from all countries or from specific countries during a set period of time. Export quotas have similar parameters. |
| Quota System |
(USA) A part of the U.S. Customs' Service Automated Commercial System, which controls quota levels (quantities authorized) and quantities entered against those levels. |
