USTR Opens Reciprocal Trade Comment Period

Toy Association Continues to Encourage Grassroots Advocacy Against Toy Tariffs

February 24, 2025 | As previously shared in an email update to the full Toy Association membership, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) opened a comment period on reciprocal trade, following President Trump’s announcement of the “Fair and Reciprocal Tariff Plan.” Toy manufacturers are urged to submit comments on behalf of their companies if this issue impacts their sourcing countries and export models.

The public comment period is part of the USTR’s work pursuant to the America First Trade Policy Presidential Memorandum and the Reciprocal Trade and Tariffs Presidential Memorandum. These comments will assist the USTR in reviewing and identifying any unfair trade or non-reciprocal foreign trade practices.

The deadline for submission of comments is March 11, 2025. Click here to view the Federal Register Notice.

The Toy Association™ remains actively engaged in discussions about tariffs to ensure the voice of the toy industry is heard loud and clear by congressional leaders and White House officials. The Toy Association’s President & CEO Greg Ahearn, Chief Policy Officer Kathrin Belliveau, and Toy Association members have all been spreading awareness about the impact tariffs on toys would have on American families and businesses.

In addition to The Toy Association’s advocacy, which has included targeted meetings on Capitol Hill, companies have been taking action and delivering messages in their home districts. Toy Association member Elenco Electronics recently hosted Representative Brad Schneider of Illinois at the company’s office (pictured right) for a focused dialogue on how tariffs would affect businesses in the toy industry.

“Engaging directly with Congressman Schneider allowed us to share the real-life impacts of these tariffs on small businesses like ours and countless others in the toy industry,” said Anthony Trani, CEO of Elenco Electronics. “His thoughtful questions confirmed that our message is resonating as we navigate significant uncertainty.”

The Toy Association has developed key talking points for conversations with representatives relating to tariffs. Companies that would like to use The Toy Association’s resources and template letters, as well as information on how they can connect with their federal representatives, may reach out to Kathrin Belliveau, chief policy officer at The Toy Association.