AAFA President Questions Tariff Escalation

May 31, 2018 | WASHINGTON, D.C

Rick Helfenbein, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, criticized the use of punitive tariffs by the Trump administration on U.S. imports of steel and aluminum from Canada, Mexico, and the European Union.  

“To make this move against our closest allies, especially during the renegotiation of NAFTA, creates more difficulty and chaos for the business community. Let's be clear, Made in USA apparel and footwear will suffer as a direct result of this action by the Trump administration,” said Helfenbein. “Not only will this move result in inflationary costs, but we risk retaliation by our trading partners. In particular, the EU has already indicated that it will impose tariffs on American-made blue jeans, t-shirts, and footwear. The ability to export our Made in USA product is essential for the health of the domestic manufacturing industry. This will be detrimental for our companies and for American workers. 

“Just as the administration was downgrading the storm from a 'trade war' to a 'trade dispute,' it has decided to take a very negative turn. It is important to note that tariffs are a hidden tax on the American consumer – they will inflate prices throughout the economy and hurt American job growth. New barriers will not create new opportunities for Americans." 

Canada, the European Union, and Mexico are the three largest markets for exports of Made in USA apparel. Canada and the EU are the top two markets for Made in USA footwear.