Entire U.S. Footwear Industry Unites in Opposition to China Tariffs
May 30, 2019 | WASHINGTON, D.C.
Five industry trade groups sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump today, opposing the proposed use of punitive tariffs on footwear equipment, footwear inputs, and finished footwear imported to the U.S. from China. The groups – American Apparel & Footwear Association, Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America, Outdoor Industry Association, Rubber and Plastic Footwear Manufacturers Association, and Sports and Fitness Industry Association – represent the entire U.S footwear industry, both importers and domestic manufacturers, and the industry's one million American workers.
According to the signatories, “the Section 301 list released on May 13 by the United States Trade Representative poses a serious threat to the domestic footwear industry, will increase costs for consumers, and ultimately will have unintended consequences that could imperil the economic models that both the domestic and import footwear manufacturing industries have been building."
The letter continues, "...this move to increase duties on machinery, components, and footwear would have drastic effects on patriotic American companies, some of which would face existential peril."
The letter in its entirety can be downloaded here.
About the American Apparel & Footwear Association
The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade association representing apparel, footwear and other sewn products companies, and their suppliers, which compete in the global market. Representing more than 1,000 world famous name brands, we are the trusted public policy and political voice of the apparel and footwear industry, its management and shareholders, its nearly four million U.S. workers, and its contribution of more than $400 billion in annual U.S. retail sales. AAFA provides exclusive expertise in trade, brand protection, and supply chain & manufacturing to help our members navigate the complex regulatory environment and lower costs. Members gain unparalleled access to information and exclusive insights on regulation and policy, and premier opportunities for networking and collaboration. Learn more at aafaglobal.org.
About the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America
Founded in 1944, FDRA is governed and directed by footwear executives and is the only trade organization focused solely on the footwear industry. It serves as the footwear industry's business and trade association and supports the full footwear supply chain. FDRA Members range from small family-owned businesses to multi-national companies that reach consumers around the world. FDRA Members include the majority of U.S. footwear manufacturers, brands, retailers and importers. In all, FDRA supports nearly 500 companies and brands worldwide, representing 90 percent of total U.S. footwear sales.
About the Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA unites and serves over 1300 manufacturer, supplier, sales representative, and retailer members through its focus on trade and recreation policy, sustainable business innovation and outdoor participation. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.
About the Rubber and Plastic Footwear Manufacturers Association
The Rubber and Plastic Footwear Manufacturers Association (RPFMA) is the trade group that speaks for the principal domestic producers of protective footwear and rubber-sole, fabric-upper footwear, as well as suppliers of components to the industry.
About the Sports and Fitness Industry Association
The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), the #1 source for sport and fitness research, is the leading global trade association of manufacturers, retailers, and marketers in the sports products and fitness industry. SFIA seeks to promote sports and fitness participation, as well as industry vitality through research, thought leadership, public affairs, industry affairs and member services. For more information, please visit sfia.org.