CNBCยท2025-05-02 19:08Core Viewpoint - The Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America is requesting a tariff exemption from President Trump, citing the tariffs as an "existential threat" to the footwear industry, with 76 brands including Nike and Adidas signing the letter [1][2]. Industry Impact - Many companies producing affordable footwear for lower and middle-income families are unable to absorb high tariff rates or pass costs to consumers, risking business closures and low inventory for U.S. consumers [2]. - The footwear industry is already facing significant duties on products like children's shoes, with tariffs expected to range from 150% to about 220% for U.S. footwear companies [5]. Tariff Details - Trump's tariffs, announced on April 2, included high levies on key footwear supplier countries such as China, Vietnam, and Cambodia, with effective rates of 145% on Chinese imports and initial rates of over 45% for Vietnam and Cambodia reduced to 10% for a limited period [3]. - The higher tariffs on various trade partners are set to resume in early July, exacerbating the situation for the footwear industry [3]. Business Sentiment - Adidas has warned that tariffs will lead to increased prices for American consumers, while Nike's finance chief indicated that global levies and economic uncertainty would negatively impact current-quarter sales [4]. - The footwear association emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the industry cannot afford months to adjust to the new tariff regime, which undermines the certainty needed for investment in sourcing changes [6].