kechers, Nike Urge Tariff Exemption From Trump

Major footwear brands including Nike, Adidas, and Skechers have joined the Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America (FDRA) in urging President Donald Trump to exclude shoes from new reciprocal tariffs. In an April 29 letter, 76 companies warned that the industry, already burdened with high duties—some exceeding 37.5%—could face devastating cost increases under the new trade measures.

The plea comes as Trump’s sweeping tariffs, including 145% duties on Chinese imports, unsettle global trade. Companies like Adidas and Skechers have withheld or withdrawn their 2025 forecasts, citing tariff-related uncertainty. The Chinese government has signaled possible talks but has not committed.

The FDRA emphasized that broad tariffs on essential goods like shoes pose a severe threat to American businesses and consumers. The group called for a more strategic, product-specific approach to tariffs, rather than targeting widely used items critical to everyday consumers.