In an urgent appeal, leading shoe manufacturers in the United States have reached out to President Donald Trump, seeking relief from the recently imposed tariffs. The Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) has officially communicated with the White House, expressing that the current “reciprocal tariffs” pose a significant threat to the survival of the footwear sector.
This letter, dispatched on April 29, garnered signatures from 76 prominent brands, including major players such as Nike, Adidas, Skechers, and Under Armour.
The letter highlights a dire situation, stating, “Many companies making affordable footwear for hardworking lower and middle-income families cannot absorb tariff rates this high, nor can they pass along these costs. Without immediate relief from the reciprocal tariffs, they will simply shutter.” The association also warned of impending inventory shortages, with many orders currently put on hold.
Trump’s comprehensive tariff strategy, unveiled on April 2, introduced significant levies affecting key footwear producing nations, including China, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Although the initially proposed tariffs exceeding 45% on imports from Vietnam and Cambodia were temporarily reduced to 10% for a 90-day period, duties on Chinese goods continue to rise, with an effective rate now reaching 145%.
These increased tariffs on numerous trading partners are scheduled to return in early July. Adidas has echoed concerns, stating that such tariffs would inevitably lead to higher prices for consumers in the United States. Earlier, Nike’s finance chief also indicated that global tariffs and market uncertainties may hinder sales in the upcoming quarter.
The FDRA’s correspondence pointed out that the footwear industry was already grappling with substantial tariffs on imports like children’s shoes prior to Trump’s announcements. According to the trade group, American footwear manufacturers now face tariffs that can range from 150% to approximately 220%.
The association characterized the situation as an “emergency” demanding immediate governmental response. “The American footwear industry does not have months to adjust business models and supply chains while absorbing this unprecedented and unforeseen tariff regime,” they emphasized.
Furthermore, the group cautioned against the misconceptions that tariffs would incentivize domestic manufacturing, as claimed by Trump, arguing that such measures undermine the stability businesses need to invest in sourcing adjustments.
As of now, the White House has not provided an immediate response to inquiries made by Finance Newso regarding the situation.
