Contents

Section Four: Government and Economy

Introduction

4.1. THE ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

  • The new administration
  • Economic forecasts
  • Consumer confidence
  • Effect on retail sales
  • Effect on fashion company strategy
  • Retail jobs
  • Currency issues
  • Inflation/deflation

4.2. REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT

  • Product labeling
  • Product safety
  • Employment law and unions

4.3. GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES: TRADE AGREEMENTS

  • US-China
  • Doha Round
  • Colombia
  • The proposed final version of CAFTA-DR
  • Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)
  • Other Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

4.4. GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES: FISCAL AND REGULATORY

  • Piracy
  • Footwear tax
  • Apparel dumping
  • Duties
  • Credit card fees
  • Tax relief

4.5. GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS: FASHION INDUSTRYRESPONSIBILITIES

Appendices

A. Sources

B. Selected Industry Associations