Trump administration releases tariff list: The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) released the list of U.S. imports from China that it plans to impose tariffs upon late Tuesday. While the list does not include apparel, footwear, travel goods, or related consumer products, it does include machinery used by the industry.

AAFA's released a statement following the release by USTR and will be engaging with the administration regarding the list during the public comment period.

Possible microfiber legislation: During the past two months, legislation has been introduced in both California (AB 2379) and Connecticut (S.B. 341) that would add labeling requirements and consumer awareness programs for clothing made of synthetic fibers like polyester. Despite the best intentions of the state legislators, AAFA is highly concerned about both the research supporting the alleged issues and the proposed solutions. To support AAFA’s efforts around these troubling bills, or for more information on the issue, contact AAFA’s Kristen Kern.

AAFA’s Government Contracts Committee - gathering in Georgia this month: Late last month, Congress passed a government funding bill which removed a provision that would have denied defense funding for U.S.-made uniforms for Afghan security forces – an important win for AAFA members. AAFA’s Government Contracts Committee (GCC) keeps members apprised of such developments that bear on the requirements of the U.S. military and other parts of the U.S. government for the procurement of clothing and shoes.

Each year, AAFA’s GCC Meeting allows apparel and footwear manufacturers, along with their textile and trim suppliers, to hear directly from government procurement officers and policy makers. It also provides a forum to discuss the Berry Amendment and share feedback on how policies impact "Made in USA" supply chains. GCC convenes April 30-May 2 in Savannah, GA with keynote speaker Lieutenant General Darrell K. Williams and a special tour of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, SC. View the GCC Meeting agenda and learn more about the Committee.