CARY, N.C. — March 24, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, has issued a statement addressing the recent executive orders imposing significant tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico.

While goods covered under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) have so far been exempt, reports indicate that these exclusions could be lifted as early as April. This move raises concerns across the nonwovens and manufacturing industries, which rely on North American trade partnerships for stable supply chains and cost efficiency.

The nonwoven fabrics industry alone contributes nearly $100 billion to North America's economy, with a substantial portion of manufacturing inputs sourced from Canada and Mexico. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, one-third of critical U.S. manufacturing inputs originate from these two nations, reducing reliance on suppliers from countries that often engage in unfair trade practices.

With global supply chains already under pressure, rising costs pose a challenge to U.S. manufacturers. Industry leaders emphasize the need for long-term trade clarity to maintain global competitiveness. INDA has called on President Trump to make the tariff exemption for USMCA products permanent, advocating for a balanced trade policy that supports domestic production while preserving North American partnerships.

As businesses prepare for potential cost hikes, trade groups and manufacturers are closely monitoring policy developments that could reshape cross-border commerce in the months ahead.