AAFA - American Apparel and Footwear Association

09/22/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/22/2021 18:02

AAFA Welcomes Confirmation of Jayme White for Deputy USTR Role

September 22, 2021 | WASHINGTON, D.C.

The American Apparel & Footwear Association welcomed the Senate's confirmation of Jayme White as a Deputy United States Trade Representative today. White will work closely with the apparel and footwear industry, with portfolios covering the Western Hemisphere, Europe, the Middle East, labor, and environment.

"Jayme White is a highly qualified individual who will bring a wealth of experience to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative," said Steve Lamar, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association.

"American businesses are facing challenging times due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continued collection of baseless tariffs throughout the supply chain. We look forward to working with Ambassador White to grow American competitiveness and open new markets for our products through smart trade policy."

"This confirmation will be critical for initiatives in the Western Hemisphere that require a whole of government approach - including the utilization of CAFTA-DR and improvements to regional infrastructure and customs operations - to address today's challenges, such as the root causes of migration. With the right policies in place, we can increase investment throughout the region and create hundreds of thousands of jobs," added Beth Hughes, AAFA vice president of trade and customs policy.