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 USITC is currently investigating the export competitiveness of certain foreign suppliers to the United States.

The joint letter follows a hearing by the commission, during which the trade bodies expressed strong disagreement with the proposed tariff increase.

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.

The AAFA represents apparel, footwear, and sewn products companies and their suppliers, while the NRF advocates for the retail industry. RILA, on the other hand, is the voice for leading retailers, and USFIA represents textile and apparel brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers with global operations.

Together, these associations wield considerable influence, with their members generating trillions of dollars in sales annually.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)