Imagine a home where appliances—from refrigerators to washing machines to smart devices—operate under inconsistent production standards, uneven quality controls, and unreliable after-sales service. This scenario is precisely what the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) seeks to prevent as it calls on the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to expedite the review and modernization of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) while strengthening enforcement of related regulations.
During a recent USTR hearing, Patrick Lozada, NEMA’s Senior Director of Global Policy, emphasized the critical need for a swift USMCA update. The goal is to align manufacturing standards across North America, preventing a "race to the bottom" in product quality. Equally important, Lozada stressed, is establishing predictable trade rules to give businesses the confidence to invest in innovation rather than navigate policy uncertainties.
Why does USMCA matter to NEMA? The agreement directly impacts the competitiveness of U.S. electrical manufacturing. A stable, transparent trade environment not only facilitates commerce but also encourages companies to allocate resources toward research, development, and quality improvements—benefits that ultimately reach consumers. Conversely, lax enforcement and fragmented standards create opportunities for counterfeit or substandard products, undermining legitimate businesses and potentially endangering public safety.
NEMA’s advocacy extends beyond industry interests. Its push for regulatory coherence aims to preserve a fair and efficient trade framework, ensuring consumers have access to safe, reliable electrical products.