In Brief
Government contracts update: On August 10, AAFA called on the 2016 presidential nominees to commit to end the U.S. government's reliance on uniforms made in U.S. prison factories and requested responses by August 31. See the full press release here. Stories were published in Apparel Magazine, Politico, and WWD.

Additionally, on August 10, AAFA’s Stephen Lamar emphasized the industry’s support for the Berry Amendment in relation to U.S.-made athletic shoes. Speaking with Community Newspapers Holding, Inc., which publishes 68 daily newspapers in 23 states, Lamar highlighted the widespread support for domestic products, saying "there’s a lot of frustration in Congress that the military is dragging their feet on this." Read the full story here.
 
WTO trade facilitation agreements: On August 11, AAFA joined a coalition of about 30 other trade associations in urging ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), negotiated through the World Trade Organization (WTO). AAFA sent a letter to non-Free Trade Agreement partners (such as Angola) and a letter to Free Trade Agreement partners (such as Chile) to encourage ratification. When implemented, the TFA will expand merchandise exports by more than $1 trillion and create 20 million trade-based jobs. For additional updates like this, join AAFA’s Customs Update mailing list by emailing nherman@aafaglobal.org.

See all of AAFA’s latest letters, comments, and testimony here.

Congress and government agencies solicit comments on a range of issues that may affect your business – find a list of comment opportunities here.

Making the most of membership: Did you know AAFA’s Government Contracts Committee keeps members apprised of developments that bear on the needs and requirements of the U.S. military and other parts of the U.S. government with respect to the procurement of clothing and shoes? AAFA members get the most out of membership when they participate in our events and committees – join committees here.