US plastics industry warns of disruptions from new tariffs

USA – The U.S. plastics industry is raising alarm over newly imposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, warning that they could disrupt manufacturing operations and drive up costs across key sectors.

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) urges policymakers to adopt balanced trade policies that protect domestic manufacturing while ensuring stable supply chains.

President and CEO of PLASTICS, Matt Seaholm, acknowledged the importance of border security but cautioned that tariffs could unintentionally harm American manufacturers.

“A competitive industry depends on policies that protect American manufacturing while ensuring stable supply chains,” said Seaholm.

According to PLASTICS, the tariffs may hinder the movement of essential machinery, products, and raw materials critical to industries such as healthcare, consumer goods, and automotive production.

The U.S. plastics industry is a major economic contributor, supporting over one million jobs and generating US$519 billion annually.

In 2023 alone, plastic exports reached US$74.2 billion, and the sector recorded a trade surplus of US$958 million.

However, the association warns that new trade barriers risk undermining this competitive edge by increasing production costs and limiting global market access.

Seaholm stressed the need for a strategic approach to trade policy, “We urge policymakers to support balanced trade policies that enhance U.S. competitiveness, reinforce supply chains, and drive continued innovation.”

PLASTICS also emphasized that stable international trade relations are vital to industry growth and long-term investment—particularly in advanced recycling and sustainability initiatives.

Since its founding in 1937, the association has supported the entire plastics supply chain, from material suppliers to recyclers.

It advocates for policies promoting circularity, innovation, and global competitiveness.

The organization also hosts NPE: The Plastics Show, the largest plastics trade event in the Americas, showcasing innovation and business opportunities within the sector.

FTC urged to embrace digital care labels for apparel

In a related push for modernization, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has petitioned the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to amend the Care Labelling Rule to allow digital care instructions for clothing.

Initially established in 1971, the rule requires manufacturers and importers to attach physical labels with care instructions to garments. However, AAFA argues that the rule is outdated and inefficient in today’s digital era.

According to AAFA, transitioning to digital labels—such as QR codes or URLs—would reduce label waste, save millions in printing and labor costs, and provide clearer information for consumers.

Data shows that current practices generate approximately 5.7 million miles of label tape annually—enough to travel from Earth to the Moon and back 12 times each year.

AAFA President and CEO Steve Lamar said, “Today’s shoppers demand more precise, relevant information without being buried under pages of wasteful, uncomfortable labels they often ignore or cut off.

“By embracing digital solutions, the FTC can unlock vast potential for consumers to gain more insights into the products they buy.”

The association noted that labels on imported clothing often feature lengthy, multi-language instructions with small, hard-to-read symbols. These not only inconvenience consumers but also add unnecessary production complexity and cost.

According to FTC estimates, more than 10,700 manufacturers and importers will produce or import over 18.4 billion garments annually by April 2024.

These entities spend an estimated 25.5 million hours and US$217 million annually to comply with the labeling rule—not including printing costs.

“We urge the FTC to take this step toward creating more responsible and adaptable guidelines,” added Nate Herman, AAFA’s Senior Vice President of Policy.

“Digital labels would ease financial burdens and potentially lower consumer costs.”

By updating the Care Labelling Rule, the FTC has an opportunity to modernize regulations in accordance with consumer habits and sustainability goals, enhancing convenience while cutting costs and waste.

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