Extrusion International 2-2025-USA

32 Extrusion International 2/2025 32 INDUSTRY NEWS Plastics Industry Essential to U.S. Manufacturing, Urges Strategic Trade Policies Matt Seaholm, President and CEO of the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), issued the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s implementation of reciprocal tariffs: “The plastics industry supports President Trump’s goal of revitaliz- ing American manufacturing, and our industry is aligned with that mis- sion. We supply the essential tools and materials needed to build more products, create more jobs, and strengthen our economy right here at home. Plastics manufacturers produce the materials, components, and equipment that fuel nearly ev- ery other manufacturing sector in the U.S. – from semiconductors and automobiles to medical devices and consumer goods. We don’t just sup- port American manufacturing; we make it possible. In the spirit of supporting policies that encourage American manufac- turing, our industry urges a thought- ful, strategic approach to trade and tariffs. The plastics industry is a cor- nerstone of U.S. manufacturing and a critical contributor to our economy. In 2023, the U.S. plastics industry ex- ported $74.2 billion in goods – more than it imported – resulting in a trade surplus of nearly $1 billion. These new tariffs will disrupt supply chains, increase production costs, and undermine our global competitiveness. Rather than im- posing across-the-board tariffs that will harm American manufacturers and sti e growth, we encourage the administration to consider more targeted policies that take into ac- count supply chains, promote in- vestment, and maintain growth in U.S. manufacturing.” Con rmations Applauded The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) released the following statements applauding the con r - mation of Howard Lutnick as Sec- retary of the U.S. Department of Commerce and the con rmation of Jamieson Greer as United States Trade Representative: “PLASTICS extends our sincere congratulations to Howard Lut- nick on his con rmation to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Depart- ment of Commerce,” said PLASTICS President and CEO Matt Seaholm. “Throughout his career, Mr. Lutnick has demonstrated a deep commit- ment to economic growth, job cre- ation and fostering innovation. We look forward to working with Mr. Lutnick on balanced trade policies that enhance U.S. competitiveness, reinforce supply chains, and drive innovation, while strengthening U.S. plastic manufacturing.” “PLASTICS extends its sincere con- gratulations to Jamieson Greer on his con rmation to serve as United States Trade Representative,” said Matt Seaholm. “We look forward to working with Mr. Greer to advance trade policies that reinforce the strength and global competitiveness of U.S. plastics manufacturing. His leadership will be critical in ensuring fair and open markets, supporting the more than one million American workers in our industry, and foster- ing innovations that drive economic growth and sustainability.” Response to Directive to Restart SB 54 Regulatory Negotiations PLASTICS President and CEOMatt Seaholm issued the following state- ment regarding California Governor Gavin Newsom’s directive to CalRe- cycle to restart regulatory negotia- tions for SB 54: “Governor Newsom’s decision to restart the regulatory process for SB 54 highlights the signi cant chal - lenges in its original implementa- tion for consumers, recyclers, and businesses. The Governor’s directive presents a critical opportunity for California policymakers to develop a workable recycling framework that incorporates industry expertise and meets environmental objectives, ensuring economic feasibility and global competitiveness. Achievable, balanced policies require collabora- tion – not rushed regulations that create unintended consequences for Californians while failing to ad- vance real sustainability solutions. The plastics industry remains com- mitted to working with Governor Newsom and policymakers to craft practical, effective regulations that drive economic growth, foster inno- vation, and enhance circularity.” www.plasticsindustry Matt Seaholm