October 31, 2025 Press Release

Statement from Matt Priest, President and CEO of FDRA, on US-China Trade Truce

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Matt Priest, President and CEO of Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA), released the following statement:

“The announcement of a U.S.–China trade truce is a welcome step toward stability, but it’s essential to recognize that existing tariffs remain in place and continue to burden American consumers and footwear companies. While this pause helps prevent further escalation, it does not solve the underlying challenges that have driven up costs for families and disrupted supply chains. We urge the President and his administration to move beyond temporary measures and work toward comprehensive, long-term solutions that eliminate unnecessary tariffs and support fair, open trade.”

About FDRA: FDRA is governed and directed by footwear executives and is the only trade organization focused solely on the footwear industry. Serving the full footwear supply chain, it boosts its members’ bottom lines through innovative products, training, consulting on footwear design and development, sourcing and compliance, trade and customs, advocacy, and consumer and sales trend analysis for shoe retailers around the world. FDRA supports 500 companies and brands worldwide, representing 97% of the total U.S. footwear industry.

To schedule an interview with Matt Priest on the state of the footwear industry, please email fdracomms@cgagroup.com.