US Initiates Examination of Apparel Sourcing Countries Amid Shifting Market Dynamics
- Details
- Published: Thursday, 25 January 2024 12:24
otwear Association (AAFA) and the United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) are gearing up to participate in a comprehensive examination by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) to uncover the market share shift of five key US apparel sourcing countries.
Beth Hughes, the Vice President of Trade and Customs Policy at AAFA, confirmed the organization's intention to partake in this examination. Similarly, USFIA President Julie Hughes expressed anticipation in providing valuable insights into how global brands and retailers perceive competitiveness in the contemporary landscape.
Julie Hughes highlighted the significant evolution in the sourcing landscape over the years, emphasizing the need for updated analysis. This sentiment was echoed by Kim Glas, President and CEO of the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), who underscored the importance of the study in shedding light on the shifting dynamics of global textile and apparel trade.
Kim Glas noted that this examination marks one of the first comprehensive studies addressing the changes in import market share and global trade practices. She expressed hope that the study would enhance transparency regarding the trade practices of these countries and their impact on the US market.
Furthermore, Glas emphasized the challenges faced by US textile and apparel manufacturers in competing on an unbalanced economic playing field due to aggressive predatory practices by foreign competitors. She reiterated the necessity for a review of US textile trade policy to address these challenges and mitigate negative ramifications.
The upcoming examination signifies a crucial step towards gaining deeper insights into the dynamics of global apparel sourcing and trade practices. With the active participation of industry stakeholders, including AAFA, USFIA, and NCTO, this initiative aims to inform policy decisions and foster a more equitable and transparent global trading environment.