STAMFORD, CONN. — With tariffs continuing to create an uncertain economic environment in the United States, the American Pet Products Association (APPA), IndiePet, National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), Pet Advocacy Network (PAN), Pet Food Institute (PFI), Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA) and World Pet Association (WPA) have teamed up to create a tariff coalition. 

The coalition has been meeting weekly since April to discuss the latest updates on tariff and trade policies, and the impact these policies may have on US pet industry businesses.  

“The coalition is currently engaged in collaborative efforts to address the tariffs across all sectors of the pet industry,” said Julia Fidenzio-Alicea, chief legal officer of the APPA. “We are closely examining how tariffs will affect live animals, manufactured products, pet food and animal pharmaceuticals while also working to ensure our industry’s voice is heard in ongoing discussions with regulatory officials.”

As part of its efforts, the coalition has issued a call to action for pet businesses to share information, including identifying specific countries of concern when it comes to trade, a list of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS0 codes, and stories about how tariffs have impacted their businesses. The coalition will then use the information in its discussions with officials. Pet businesses can provide their insights and concerns here. 

“Tariffs and trade policy have far-reaching implications for the entire pet care ecosystem — from manufacturers and distributors to retailers and the families they serve,” said Mike Bober, government affairs expert and chief executive officer of the PAN. “We’re committed to ensuring that the voices of the pet industry are heard in policy discussions. By working collaboratively, we aim to advocate for policies that protect pet businesses and the people and pets they care for.”

Additionally, the coalition will host an educational webinar, titled “Unpacking Tariffs: What Pet Businesses Need to Know,” on May 14 at 12 p.m. Central, providing actionable insights into the current state of US tariffs and how they may impact pet food and product manufacturers, distributors, retailers and suppliers. Topics will span the impact of tariffs on the pet retail supply chain, guidance on compliance and risk management strategies from a customs broker and international trade expert, advocacy efforts and policy updates shaping the future of trade regulations, and advice on managing sourcing, costs and global logistics. 

Register for the tariff webinar here. 

Read the latest updates on tariff issues impacting the pet food industry.