In its formal submission to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), the Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association (SMART) highlighted the growing trend of countries imposing restrictions or outright bans on essential textile exports.
SMART stated that such actions not only harm the U.S. textile recycling industry but also limit global access to affordable clothing. Representing businesses involved in textile collection, reuse, and recycling, SMART champions secondhand clothing exports as a crucial element of the circular economy. Each year, the sector diverts approximately four billion pounds of textiles from landfills, contributing to job creation, supporting charitable efforts, and promoting environmental conservation.
Jessica Franken, SMART’s government affairs director, remarked, “Unfair trade restrictions on secondhand clothing adversely affect U.S. businesses and disrupt access to affordable clothing in developing markets. These barriers not only undermine the circular economy but also hinder economic opportunities in communities that depend on these goods.”
The association pointed out specific trade challenges posed by countries including Argentina, members of the East African Community (EAC), and El Salvador.
SMART’s recommendations to the USTR include:
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Advocating with Argentina to remove its ban on imported secondhand clothing, which could open a market valued between $170 million and $200 million for U.S. exporters.
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Strengthening reciprocal trade principles under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) to ensure EAC nations fulfill their commitments to maintain open markets.
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Addressing El Salvador’s misinterpretation of CAFTA-DR trade regulations that led to unjust tariffs on secondhand clothing exports from the U.S.
SMART urges the USTR to prioritize these issues to ensure fair market access for U.S. businesses. The association also expressed its readiness to collaborate with USTR officials and other governmental bodies to protect American jobs, enhance sustainable practices, and strengthen international trade relationships.
