PLASTICS Voices Tariff Concerns, Support for Trade Policies to Bolster US Manufacturing

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The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is voicing its concerns about tariffs and is urging the government to introduce trade policies that strengthen U.S. manufacturing. In particular, PLASTICS President and CEO Matt Seaholm wants to share the organization’s stance regarding the Trump Administration’s implementation of tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China.

“The plastics industry continues to recognize the importance of securing our borders and combating illegal drug trafficking to protect American communities and eradicate fentanyl from our society,” Seaholm says. “A strong and secure nation is fundamental to economic growth and industrial stability.”

However, the PLASTICS organization is deeply concerned about the tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, and their impact on U.S. plastics manufacturing and jobs. “While we understand President Trump’s rationale, a competitive industry depends on policies that protect American manufacturing while ensuring stable supply chains. These tariffs will disrupt the movement of essential machines, products and materials that keep American manufacturers running across sectors like health care, consumer products and automotive.

“The plastics industry is a cornerstone of American manufacturing and daily life. We know that a strategic, measured approach to trade is critical to strengthening — not harming — the U.S. economy,” Seaholm adds. “We urge policymakers to support balanced trade policies that enhance U.S. competitiveness, reinforce supply chains and drive continued innovation.”

In 2023, U.S. plastics exports totaled $74.2 billion, exceeding imports of $73.3 billion and resulting in a $958 million trade surplus. This strength underscores the industry’s global leadership. However, PLASTICS asserts that new tariffs on key trading partners threaten supply chains, increase costs and risk eroding this advantage. To sustain growth and innovation, trade policies must bolster — not hinder — U.S. plastics manufacturing and economic leadership.

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) is the only organization that supports the entire plastics supply chain, including equipment suppliers, material suppliers, processors and recyclers, representing over one million workers in its $519 billion U.S. industry.

PLASTICS advances the priorities of its members who are dedicated to investing in technologies that improve capabilities and advances in recycling and sustainability, and providing essential products that enable the protection and safety of daily lives. Since 1937, PLASTICS has been working to make its members — and the eighth largest U.S. manufacturing industry — more globally competitive while supporting circularity through educational initiatives, industry-leading insights and events, convening opportunities and policy advocacy, including the largest plastics trade show in the Americas, NPE: The Plastics Show.