TIA Urges Administration to Reconsider Tariffs on Telecommunications Equipment Imports

Arlington, VA (August 30, 2019) –– The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech communications networks, today issued the following statement regarding tariffs currently scheduled to go into effect on Sunday, September 1, 2019 that will levy a 15%  duty on certain imported Chinese goods, including telecommunications equipment.

Patrick Lozada, TIA’s Director of Global Policy, issued the following statement:

“If the 15% tariffs set forth by the Administration are implemented as planned on Sunday, September 1, costs for certain equipment used in U.S. telecom networks will increase dramatically.  These increased costs will increase broadband costs for consumers, make it more expensive to manufacture advanced telecommunications products here in the United States, and harm one of the most innovative sectors of the American economy.

“While we fully support efforts to address unfair Chinese trade practices, tariffs on telecommunications equipment imports included in list 4A will adversely impact businesses and consumers here in the U.S. and could undermine the adoption of strategic technologies, including 5G.

“We continue to urge the administration to reconsider this action, in order to protect U.S. consumers and businesses from potential economic harm.”