Toy Association Reiterates Negative Impact of Tariffs in Comments to USITC

July 15, 2022 | As part of Americans for Free Trade, The Toy Association joined a broad coalition of American businesses, trade organizations, and workers in submitting comments to the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) on July 8 in advance of its upcoming hearing on the 232 and 301 tariffs on goods imported from China. The Trump-era tariffs have remained in effect as the Biden administration continues to assess the policy.

The coalition reiterated the negative impact of tariffs on American businesses (including toys companies), with tariffs creating roadblocks for companies trying to expand their manufacturing facilities in the U.S.

On July 20, the USITC will begin a three-day hearing on its Factfinding Investigation: Economic Impact of Section 232 and 301 Tariffs on U.S. Industries, which will provide detailed information on U.S. trade, production, and prices in the industries directly and most affected by these tariffs.

“While we recognize the importance of holding China accountable as it relates to safeguarding American IP and innovation, these tariffs have done little to curb these problems,” said Ed Desmond, executive vice president of external affairs at The Toy Association. “Instead, we’ve seen our concerns over their negative impact confirmed, and we will continue to advocate for the American businesses, families, and the retailing community burdened by these unnecessary policies.”

The Toy Association has been pushing back against tariffs since 2018, filing an amicus brief with the with the U.S. Court of International Trade, taking continual meetings with congressional leaders, submitting comments to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and White House, speaking on behalf of the toy community in media interviews, and joining with multi-industry stakeholders in strong opposition of tariffs.

Members affected by this issue are encouraged to share their impact stories with The Toy Association for potential inclusion in post-hearing comments to the USITC. The Toy Association will continue to provide updates on the issue as they become available.