AAFA implements new trade policy to support legislation

06 Mar '14

4 min read

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) announced the implementation of an updated international trade policy to support AAFA's ambitious legislative agenda and guide day-to-day advocacy efforts. AAFA also provided members with an update on the search for a new president and CEO. Both discussions were part of the semi-annual meeting of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) Board of Directors.

"As the U.S. apparel and footwear industry continues to change at rapid pace, it is important for our trade policy to reflect current and future trends," said AAFA Board of Directors Chairman Philip C. Williamson, Chairman, President, and CEO of Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company.

"The AAFA International Trade Policy serves as a foundational philosophy to guide AAFA policy positions as AAFA helps the U.S. apparel and footwear industry maintain its competitive edge in the global marketplace. It's essential to keep it updated so AAFA can quickly respond to new and emerging issues."

"The U.S. apparel and footwear industry is focused on providing the world's population, not just the five percent that live inside the United States, with affordable and stylish fashion," said AAFA Executive Vice President Steve Lamar."

As U.S. name brands grow in popularity around the world, it is important for AAFA to advocate for policy positions that support the continued growth of the industry both at home and abroad. We can achieve these goals by increasing market access, promoting social responsibility and environmental standards, protecting intellectual property, and fostering trade facilitation and harmonization."

The updated AAFA International Trade Policy was approved by a recent vote of the AAFA Board of Directors and is comprised for four main principles. Representing an industry that is on the frontlines of globalization and whose members depend on international trade for their competitiveness.

AAFA will secure access to global markets and global supply chains through the elimination or reduction of duties and other trade barriers.Promote best practices to ensure that goods are produced in a socially responsible, safe, and sustainable manner.

AAFA will also ensure that governments take the necessary steps to protect and enforce intellectual property rights.Foster trade facilitation policies that support transparency, predictability, and harmonization.

To advance these goals, AAFA will pursue policies that integrate U.S. trade policies and programs and maximize the benefits they provide to members.

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