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January 9, 2014           

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United States Fashion Industry Association Applauds Introduction of Bipartisan TPA Legislation, Urges Swift Passage

Washington, D.C. – The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) applauds the introduction of bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation by U.S. Senator Max Baucus (D-MT), U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), and U.S. Representative Dave Camp (R-MI) today.

"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 United States Fashion Industry Association is also a member of the Trade Benefits America Coalition, a broad-based group of more than 160 leading U.S. business and agricultural associations and companies. For more information on the coalition, visit www.tradebenefitsamerica.org

About the United States Fashion Industry Association

The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) represents the fashion industry: textile and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers based in the United States and doing business globally. Founded in 1989 as the United States Association of Importers of Textiles & Apparel with the goal of eliminating the global apparel quota system, USFIA now works to eliminate the tariff and non-tariff barriers that impede the industry’s ability to trade freely and create economic opportunities in the United States and abroad. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., USFIA is the most respected voice for the fashion industry in front of the U.S. government as well as international governments and stakeholders.  With constant, two-way communication, USFIA staff and counsel serve as the eyes and ears of our members in Washington and around the world, enabling them to stay ahead of the regulatory challenges of today and tomorrow. Through our publications, educational events, and networking opportunities, USFIA also connects with key stakeholders across the value chain including U.S. and international service providers, suppliers, and industry groups.