Three House Republicans are urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to take action against China-based companies that are falsely advertising American flags as “Made in the USA” on online retail platforms. The letter, sent to FTC Chair Lina Khan on Nov. 1, was led by House Republican Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and joined by Reps. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) and Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.).
The lawmakers emphasized that this fraudulent behavior deceives American consumers seeking to display their patriotism, poses a threat to the domestic flag industry, and undermines the integrity of ‘Made in the USA’ advertising and labeling. They called on Khan to hold these Chinese companies and online retailers accountable for violating trade laws and harming American flag manufacturers.
Amazon and Walmart were identified as two online retail platforms where Chinese flag manufacturers have been selling their products. Despite claims of being “100% Made in USA,” investigations revealed that these products were actually manufactured in China. The lawmakers urged the FTC to swiftly enforce measures against these deceptive practices and collaborate with major online platforms to verify seller claims and uphold truthful advertising standards.
The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) commended the lawmakers for their efforts to address this issue. NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas stressed the importance of stopping illegal labeling and advertising practices by Chinese companies to protect American consumers and the domestic flag industry.
In a related development, the Biden administration announced measures to crack down on the de minimis loophole, which allows packages valued at less than $800 to enter the U.S. with minimal customs scrutiny. This loophole has been exploited by drug traffickers, prompting calls for its closure by Democratic senators.
Julye Spinelli, owner of Saratoga Flag Company, echoed the need for stricter enforcement of U.S. laws to prevent the influx of counterfeit American flags from China. Congresswoman Stefanik’s leadership on this issue has been praised for advocating for American flagmakers and domestic industry.
In June 2023, Stefanik and a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced the Make American Flags in America Act (H.R.4137), which aims to require American flags displayed on federal property or procured by federal agencies to be manufactured entirely in the United States from American materials.
Despite reaching out for comment, the FTC, Amazon, and Walmart did not respond by the time of publication. Please rewrite this sentence for me.
Source link
