Today, the National Customs Brokers and Forwarder's Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA) sent a letter to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi regarding President Trump's threat to impose escalating tariffs on all products imported from Mexico. If this action is allowed to occur, the NCBFAA understands just how severe of an impact this will have on the U.S. economy.

The United States and Mexico have long been allies when it comes to trade. With negotiations completed on a revitalized trade agreement, we looked to further cement our longstanding relationship with Mexico well into the future. This is especially important because, as of recently, Mexico became our largest trading partner. In 2018, trade between our two countries totaled an estimated $671 billion; covering everything from avocados and automobiles to flat-screen televisions and crude oil. The integrated supply chains in North America are deeply intertwined and part of dynamic cross-border trade flows essential to U.S. manufacturing and the U.S. economy. The disruption caused by these tariffs would be significant, raising costs for U.S. businesses of all sizes that will cascade negatively through the entire economy.
"The NCBFAA proudly represents the nation's leading licensed customs brokers who, every day, play an important role in the cross-border supply chains between the U.S. and Mexico," writes NCBFAA President Amy Magnus. "Our members assist importers in navigating the entry filing process by preparing the appropriate documentation to clear customs and meet the requirements of CBP and other government agencies. We know first-hand just how devastating these tariffs will be up and down the supply chain."
This is something that Congress cannot allow to happen. To levy tariffs on one of our closest allies under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) is a clear abuse of statutory authority. The IEEPA is a tool meant for imposing economic sanctions on America's enemies and adversaries in the face of "unusual and extraordinary threats," not as a bludgeon against valued trading partners.
The NCBFAA calls on Speaker Pelosi to schedule a vote on a resolution of disapproval or take whatever other legislative actions are needed to prevent the tariffs from taking effect before it is too late.