Many executives in the apparel and textiles industry in the US are facing challenges due to the imposition of significant tariffs on goods from China and other parts of the world. The White House has portrayed these tariffs as a way to boost domestic manufacturing, but the fluctuating nature of the tariffs has left many business leaders uncertain about their impact.

Steven Borrelli, founder of fashion brand Cuts Clothing, supports President Trump’s tariff strategy but emphasizes the need for more time to adjust to the changes. Other industry experts, like Nate Herman of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, warn that the tariffs will likely lead to increased costs for consumers and hinder job growth in the industry.

Entrepreneur Todd Shelton, whose fashion brand operates with materials sourced overseas, highlights the inevitable price increases that will result from the tariffs. Additionally, Lance Ruttenberg of American Textile Company expresses concerns about the potential negative effects on manufacturing capabilities and employment.

The industry as a whole is skeptical about the tariffs’ ability to revive US manufacturing and fears that other administration policies, such as cuts to vocational training and immigration crackdowns, could further impact the sector. Ruttenberg questions the feasibility of bringing back certain types of jobs to the US, stating that the textile industry relies on specialized skills not readily available domestically.

Overall, the article underscores the complexities and uncertainties facing the apparel and textiles industry in light of the tariffs and highlights the broader implications for businesses, consumers, and workforce dynamics in the US.