The US fashion sector supports a temporary pause in tariffs, however it seeks a more definitive and extensive strategy to reinstate stability and cost-effectiveness across the global fashion supply chain.

On 9 April, US President Donald Trump declared a full 90-day suspension of the “reciprocal” tariffs, which came into effect at midnight, however he offered no tariff respite for China.

Trump said in a social media post: “Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the World’s Markets, I am hereby raising the Tariff charged to China by the United States of America to 125%, effective immediately. At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realise that the days of ripping off the USA, and other countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable.

Conversely, and based on the fact that more than 75 countries have called Representatives of the United States, including the Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and the USTR, to negotiate a solution to the subjects being discussed relative to trade, trade barriers, tariffs, currency manipulation, and non monetary tariffs, and that these countries have not, at my strong suggestion, retaliated in any way, shape, or form against the United States, I have authorised a 90 day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately.”

Steve Lamar, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) voiced concerns about the ongoing unpredictability in trade policies. He remarked that the current approach continues to impose an untenable levy on imports from China, which is a significant trade partner for the US apparel industry.

According to Lamar, if these elevated tariffs are maintained, including those under President Trump’s Section 301, it could result in increased prices for everyday clothing items, shoes, and accessories.

Additionally, it would escalate expenses for US manufacturers dependent on specific materials and products that are only available from China.

Lamar said: “The on-again, off-again tariff policy is forcing companies to careen between chaos and costs. While we welcome this limited pause to give negotiators in the US and dozens of trading partners a chance to hammer out sustainable outcomes, it is only a first step in a policy that needs to be more comprehensive, predictable, and durable if we want to encourage the kind of investments that will support more US jobs.”

“It is our hope that this limited pause can be extended to all countries so that US companies, now caught in the crosshairs of a frenzied trade war, can focus their energies on encouraging the US and its key trading partners to negotiate an end to both US and foreign trade barriers. We further urge the administration to work closely with Congress, and with all stakeholders, so that we can forge a more durable trade policy that is based on partnership of reciprocal trade, not fear of crushing tariffs,” Lamar added.

Meanwhile, the United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) expressed apprehension regarding the intensifying trade conflict with China.

The association emphasised that trade wars yield no victors and expressed hope that the recent reciprocal tariff hikes would pave the way for earnest discussions aimed at addressing the enduring trade disputes between the US and China.

USFIA said: “We are relieved that President Trump is pausing the onerous reciprocal tariffs on most of our trading partners. Ninety days offers an opportunity to hold serious discussions about trade barriers and craft substantive market opening agreements. Our motto at USFIA is “Fashion Made Possible by Global Trade” and we know that fashion benefits from the opportunity to source across the globe.”

Recently, AAFA supported The Trade Review Act of 2025 introduced by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), which aims to restore certainty in US trade policy and reaffirm Congress’ constitutional role in trade matters.

Last month, AAFA voiced concerns over the US Department of Labor’s (DOL) choice to end all contracts with its Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB). 

Last week, analytics and consulting company GlobalData warned the new US import tariffs will harm the global apparel market, as they put pressure on brand margins and consumer sentiment.