On January 9, 2014, the United States Fashion Industry Association released a statement applauding the introduction of the legislation and urging swift passage: 

“Trade Promotion Authority is essential for the conclusion of successful, high-standard, 21st-century trade agreements,” says Julia K. Hughes, President of the United States Fashion Industry Association. "The United States Fashion Industry Association applauds the introduction of TPA and urges Congress to swiftly pass the legislation so the Administration can conclude the important trade negotiations on the agenda, particularly the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Transatlantic Trade & Investment Partnership (TTIP).” 

These trade agreements are especially important for the U.S. fashion industry, which includes textile and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers based in the United States and doing business globally. 

“The fashion industry relies on new markets for both imports and exports of inputs and finished products," adds Hughes. "TPA will allow these markets to be open for U.S. fashion businesses even sooner, and grow the economy and jobs in industries across the United States.” 

The Trade Benefits America coalition, comprised of over 160 U.S. business and agricultural organizations, also applauded the introduction. USFIA is a member of the coalition. For more information on TPA, visit www.tradebenefitsamerica.org.