ARLINGTON, VA – Jan. 21, 2025 – The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® on President Donald Trump’s America First Trade Policy memorandum:
"President Trump's decision to approach trade policy in a more measured and deliberative way is a positive step forward for American consumers and businesses. By delaying immediate tariff increases, the Administration is showing a willingness to evaluate the economic impact of such actions, reflecting an understanding of the significant concerns CTA has raised—including our widely cited CTA research showing tariffs are taxes on Americans.
“We commend the Administration for considering the realities of tariffs and how they and other trade barriers harm the innovative capacity of the United States. We are committed to working collaboratively with the Administration and Congress to support an Innovation Agenda that empowers U.S. consumers and innovators. The tech sector is America’s economic engine, driving global innovation and job creation. CTA will continue to work with the Administration and the Congress on behalf of America's consumers and innovators.”
CTA’s recently released Innovation Agenda for policymakers includes a trade agenda that strengthens relationships and negotiates free trade agreements with allies and partners to reduce trade costs and eliminates barriers to digital trade.
Editor’s Note: CTA research shows that tariffs proposed by President Trump could lead to a $90-$143 billion decline in U.S. consumer purchasing power of the tech devices Americans rely on. Learn more about CTA’s Innovation Agenda here.
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About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:
As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.
About CES®:
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2026 takes place Jan. 6-9, 2026, in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social.