September 13, 2018 — The National Fisheries Institute has joined around 80 other U.S. trade associations in a coordinated campaign to oppose tariffs and other barriers to free trade.
The multi-industry coalition, Americans for Free Trade, on Wedneday, 12 September, launched a multi-million dollar national campaign titled Tariffs Hurt the Heartland. The campaign is aimed at members of the U.S. Congress and the general public and will tell stories of American businesses, farmers, workers, and families being hurt by the recently imposed tariffs. It will include events in congressional districts across the country; paid television, radio, and online advertisements; a “rapid-response war room” that will fact check and respond to tariff announcements; a digital and traditional media campaign including op-eds, blogs, and press statements on tariff-related issues; and direct outreach to key members of Congress “on behalf of grassroots voices from across the nation,” according to the newly-formed organization.
“American jobs are fueled by international trade in seafood,” NFI President John Connelly said in a press release. “Without access to seafood imports from important markets like China, or if these products become too expensive, jobs here in the U.S. will pay the price.”
Partners in the campaign include the National Retail Federation, Farmers for Free Trade, Retail Industry Leaders, the Consumer Technology Association, the American Apparel and Footwear Association, and the National Marine Manufacturers Association. A full list of participating organizations can be seen at the campaign’s website, AmericansforFreeTrade.com.