Newsletter at-a-glance
The Trump Administration has announced plans to impose tariffs on a pending list of Chinese products, pursue a WTO settlement, and review investment restrictions as a result of a 301 investigation into Chinese trade practices. See AAFA's response under Trade and AAFA News.
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March 26: ... The planned changes in the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) were seen as limited, leaving South Korea’s key passenger car exports untouched and helping soothe fears that Trump’s tough approach could start a spiraling global trade war. ( Source: Reuters)
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March 24: ... "Even though there're complaints by the Trump administration about how well the WTO works, there does seem to be some evidence that they also share the view that the WTO can be a place where these disputes can be resolved," Stephen Lamar, executive vice president of American Apparel and Footwear Association, told Xinhua, suggesting that the U.S. and Chinese governments could resolve trade disputes through the WTO and bilateral dialogues. (Source: Xinhua)
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March 22: ... "If it’s a hit on our industry, it’s a hit on the American consumer," Helfenbein told FOX Business’ Ashley Webster during an interview on Thursday. "It would be devastating for us." ( Source: FOX Business)
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March 20: ... The U.S. for decades has extended this authority to the executive branch, which frees up the president to reach deals that aren't later picked apart by various constituencies in Congress. ( Source: Washington Examiner)
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March 26: The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), the labor union that represents dockworkers at seaports up and down the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts, and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), the group that represents the ILA's employers, have made "significant progress" on terms for a six-year extension of their current master contract, the associations said in a joint statement Friday afternoon. ( Source: American Shipper)
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March 22: ... This week, a coalition of industry organizations – the American Apparel & Footwear Association, amfori, Ethical Trading Initiative, Fair Labor Association, Fair Wear Foundation and Social Accountability International – sent a letter to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen urging the government to take action on labor rights and human rights. (Source: Sourcing Journal - article unlocked)
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March 7: ... Innovators are coming up with tools to keep tiny pieces of thread that are discharged with washing machine effluent from reaching marine life. Such "microfibers" are too small to be caught in conventional filters, so they eventually pass through sewage plants, wash out to waterways, and can be eaten or absorbed by marine animals, some later served up as seafood. ( Source: Associated Press)
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March 26: In the firm’s annual "5 in 5" technology predictions, IBM says cryptographic anchors, such as tiny computers or ink dots, will be embedded in everyday objects and devices as a way to counter counterfeiters. (Securing Industry)
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March 26: ... The STRONGER Patents Act, in its current draft, finds that the most recent comprehensive reforms to the U.S. patent system, the America Invents Act (AIA) enacted in 2011, resulted in unintended consequences which have damaged the ability of patent owners to protect their patents from infringement. ( Source: IP Watchdog)
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March 22: ... In the three years since the Combatting Counterfeit Products Act came into force, custom officers have detained just 48 shipments — an average of 16 each year. ( Source: CBC)
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China tariffs - the worry and the potential impact: At the AAFA Executive Summit in Washington weeks ago, we brought to light areas of "worry" – including the potential for the Administration’s quest for tariffs to extend well into our space. We expect the release of a list within the next ten days, identifying products manufactured in China that President Trump will slap hefty tariffs upon, which will be followed by a public comment period. With crucial feedback from members, AAFA has taken concrete steps to present our industry’s collective dissatisfaction with the idea of punitive tariffs and to encourage the Administration to reconsider. A sampling of our vocal efforts: CNBC Asia – The Rundown; Fox Business – Countdown; Sourcing Journal – What Trump’s Tariffs Could Mean for Sourcing.
Engaging with your legislators and AAFA continues to be very important during this period. To get involved, 1) send this pre-drafted letter to the Administration and your representatives in Congress and 2) Reach out to Steve Lamar and Nate Herman to engage further.
New! North Korea guidance: Last week, we released guidance to help AAFA members understand and address U.S. sanctions against imports made in whole or in part with North Korean labor. This resource is divided into four parts: the issue; immediate considerations; potential pitfalls; and an appendix of known resources. It will be regularly updated when new data, information, and/or resources become available to help AAFA members better approach and ensure compliance with the sanctions. AAFA wishes to thank Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) (AAFA’s CSR Partner); the law firm of Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg (AAFA’s Customs Counsel); UL Responsible Sourcing; and Elevate for their tremendous expertise, advice, assistance, and support in developing this guidance.
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.
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March & April
March 28 Webinar: Chemical Management - Why Should I Care?
April 19 Webinar: Fighting Brand Abuse on Social Media
April 24 Government Relations Committee Meeting
April 24-25 Supply Chain Innovation: The Key to Success in the New Retail Dynamic
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Trade
