(a) Absolute quota merchandise. Absolute quota merchandise imported in excess of the quantity admissible under the applicable quota must be disposed of in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) Tariff-rate quota merchandise. Merchandise imported in excess of the quantity admissible at the reduced quota rate under a tariff-rate quota is permitted entry at the higher duty rate. However, it may be disposed of in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

(c) Disposition of excess merchandise. Merchandise imported in excess of either an absolute or a tariff-rate quota may be held for the opening of the next quota period by placing it in a foreign-trade zone or by entering it for warehouse, or it may be exported or destroyed under Customs supervision.