AAFA Welcomes Progress on USMCA and Emphasizes Need for Seamless Transition from NAFTA

December 10, 2019 | WASHINGTON, D.C.

The American Apparel & Footwear Association welcomes the announcement that the House of Representatives will move forward with a vote on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), paving the way for expedited approval and what the industry hopes will be a seamless transition from the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

“AAFA strongly supports USMCA and is thankful to USTR and Congressional leadership for their work to finalize a deal that can get through Congress, be approved by the President, and quickly benefit American job creators and consumers. We look forward to reviewing the final language and working with our members to determine how to best use the deal to create jobs throughout the supply chain,” said Rick Helfenbein, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. “An integrated North American supply chain is an integral component of the apparel and footwear industry. Further, in a time of trade uncertainty, it will provide businesses with the ability to invest confidently in the region. That said, it is paramount that the transition from NAFTA to USMCA occur smoothly, to ensure that there are no negative impacts as the business community comes up to speed with the new rules.” 

Throughout the USMCA negotiations, AAFA has called for the resulting agreement to continue the trilateral arrangement with Mexico and Canada, to not harm to the industry’s supply chains, and to be seamlessly implemented. An infographic showcasing the role of the North American supply chain can be viewed here.