In a united front, 76 of America's top footwear brands, including Nike, Adidas America and Skechers, have asked President Donald Trump to exclude shoes from pending tariff hikes. The appeal, led by the trade group Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America (FDRA), warns that new levies threaten prices, businesses and jobs nationwide.
Currently, basic shoe imports already carry steep duties. Children's footwear faces at least 20 percent tariffs, sometimes topping 37 percent before the new measures kick in. The Trump administration's sweeping duties\u0015145 percent tariffs on imports from the Chinese mainland\u0015could push prices even higher at a time when consumers are watching every dollar.
Industry leaders say the uncertainty is already taking a toll. Adidas recently held back its 2025 forecast despite strong first-quarter results. Skechers likewise withdrew its full-year outlook, pointing to an erratic trade policy as a major headwind.
"Given the nature of the U.S. footwear industry, American footwear businesses and families face an existential threat from such substantial cost increases. Hundreds of businesses face the prospect of closure," the FDRA letter states, calling for "a more targeted approach, focused on strategic items rather than basic consumer goods."
As leaders in innovation and design await clarity, the footwear sector is urging a rethink on tariffs to protect both makers and consumers from a potential footwear squeeze.
Source: Reuters
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
