INSIGHTS
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- The AAFA, NRF, RILA, and USFIA, strongly opposed suggestion to impose higher tariffs on apparels imported from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Pakistan.
- They jointly wrote to USITC highlighting concerns about potential burden on end-consumers.
- USITC is currently investigating export competitiveness of certain foreign suppliers to US.
Four major American trade bodies, including the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA), the National Retail Federation (NRF), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), and the United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA), have united to oppose the proposal for increased tariffs on apparel imports from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Pakistan.
In a joint letter addressed to David Johanson, chair of the US International Trade Commission (USITC), they highlighted concerns about the potential burden on end-consumers due to the increased prices. ...
The letter emphasised that the US already imposes high most-favoured-nation duty rates on apparel products compared to other sectors, impacting the cost competitiveness of the sourcing countries.
Furthermore, the letter highlighted the complex factors influencing sourcing decisions, including vertical integration, cost competitiveness, skillsets of labour forces, and adherence to quality and compliance standards.