AAFA Submits 2027 National Trade Estimate Comments

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) submitted comments to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) for the 2027 National Trade Estimate (NTE) Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, highlighting significant challenges affecting the U.S. apparel, footwear, and travel goods industries. AAFA's submission identifies burdensome trade practices across 12 countries, including import licensing requirements, customs valuation and enforcement practices, labeling regulations, technical barriers to trade, and intellectual property protection concerns. The comments also emphasize the importance of reducing regulatory inconsistencies, strengthening customs cooperation, and improving market access for U.S. companies. In addition, AAFA urges the administration to pursue greater predictability in U.S. tariff policy, eliminate tariffs on manufacturing inputs and machinery, prevent overlapping tariffs, and provide sufficient implementation periods for new trade measures. The submission highlights the importance of trade preference programs, digital labeling modernization, and addressing ongoing transportation challenges, including uncertainty surrounding Section 301 maritime and shipbuilding fees. AAFA looks forward to continued engagement with USTR to eliminate unnecessary trade barriers, strengthen global supply chains, and support the competitiveness of American businesses and workers.

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