01/11/2020
If you are so inclined, comments are being accepted on this vital trade issue. More details in the link below.
DATELINE: JAN 13, 2020 – You still have time to let the U.S. Trade Representative know that extra tariffs on imported cheeses from Europe are a bad idea. Follow the link: https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=USTR-2019-0003
Background: The US and the EU are currently in a trade dispute on matters of civil aviation. The US is accusing some EU countries of illegally giving tax breaks and incentives to the airplane company AirBus. In retaliation, the US announced extra tariffs for European products, including cheese, olives, liquors, and many other food items.
The first round of tariffs has been in place since late 2019 and has already started affecting American companies. Reports from our members indicate that many US producers and distributors have stopped expansion plans and hiring new employees due to the uncertainty created by the tariffs. Retailers reported that they had fewer costumers in their shops, impacting sales during the busy holiday season. Cheese-lovers have started to see price increases in some independent retailers, especially those outside of the major metropolitan areas.
The Oldways Cheese Coalition understand the need for fair trade practices but doesn’t agree with targeting food products that millions of Americans consume every day. This is not an issue of the US vs Europe. It is an issue between big companies in the aviation industry. Make your voice heard. The moment to act is now!