May 9, 2025 (National Council of Textile Organizations (via LinkedIn)) –
The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) posted 8 LinkedIn updates from May 2 to May 9, 2025. During this period, the organization focused heavily on a significant policy change regarding Chinese imports and its potential impact on the U.S. textile industry. The posts reflect a mix of industry advocacy, political engagement, and media coverage of the issue.
Major Policy Change: Ending Chinese Import Privileges
The most prominent topic in NCTO's recent posts is the announcement of President Trump's action to end a tariff loophole that had previously allowed duty-free access for certain Chinese imports. This policy change, referred to as ending "de minimis" for China, is being hailed by the NCTO as a significant victory for the U.S. textile industry.
NCTO CEO Kim Glas was quoted in a New York Times article, stating, "This tariff loophole has granted China almost unilateral, privileged access to the U.S. market at the expense of American manufacturers & U.S. jobs." The organization views this change as a crucial step in leveling the playing field for American manufacturers and potentially restoring and creating more U.S. jobs in the textile sector.
President Trump himself referred to the previous policy as a "big scam" against the country and small businesses, emphasizing the administration's commitment to supporting domestic industry. The NCTO expressed sincere gratitude to the administration for this action, calling it a "BIG Day" for the industry.
NCTO applauds end of Chinese import loophole
Trump administration ends "de minimis" for China
New York Times covers impact of policy change
Industry Perspectives and Economic Impact
The NCTO highlighted industry perspectives on the policy change, featuring comments from Beverly Knits CEO Ron Sytz in a BBC interview. Sytz emphasized the potential for creating a level playing field and posed the question, "Which is more important, buying a $5 T-shirt or having a job?" This statement underscores the industry's view that the policy change could lead to job creation and economic benefits for U.S. workers, even if it might result in higher prices for consumers.
The organization also shared a New York Times article discussing how apparel makers are now looking for alternative sourcing hubs following the changes to Chinese import policies. This shift in sourcing strategies could have significant implications for global supply chains in the textile and apparel industries.
Beverly Knits CEO discusses policy impact
Apparel makers seek new sourcing options
Political Engagement and Industry Advocacy
The NCTO's posts also reflected active engagement with political figures and ongoing advocacy efforts. The organization highlighted exchanges between members of Congress and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, particularly focusing on comments that seemed to question the importance of a thriving U.S. textile industry.
Rep. William Timmons (R-SC) and Rep. Rosa DeLauro were noted for challenging Secretary Bessent's remarks. Rep. DeLauro emphasized the industry's significance, citing that it provides 471,000 jobs and contributes $64 billion in output to the U.S. economy. The NCTO expressed gratitude for the support from these representatives.
Additionally, Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX) was featured discussing the benefits of closing the de minimis loophole for China, suggesting that American manufacturers would be more willing to invest and create jobs as a result of this policy change.
Rep. Timmons questions Treasury Secretary
Rep. DeLauro defends textile industry importance
Rep. Sessions highlights policy benefits
Conclusion
The NCTO's LinkedIn activity during this period demonstrates a concerted effort to promote and celebrate a major policy change affecting Chinese imports. The organization views this change as a significant victory for the U.S. textile industry, potentially leading to increased domestic manufacturing, job creation, and a more level playing field in international trade. Through a combination of media coverage, industry perspectives, and political engagement, the NCTO is actively shaping the narrative around this policy shift and its potential impacts on the U.S. textile sector.
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