On Sunday , during the critical Valentine ’s Day transportation season , President Trump announced a propose 25 % tariff on imports from Colombia , a major provider of flowers to the United States . The tidings make far-flung fear as importer scrambled to assess the office and contrive the next step .
The Association of Floral Importers of America ( AFIA ) immediately mobilize to accost the crisis . Although the tariffs were later suspend , the situation underscored AFIA ’s decisive office in put up clarity , reassurance and actionable support to the industry .
With the late duty situation , member turned to AFIA on a Sunday afternoon and found a trusted partner quick to provide accurate information and timely insights . By answer questions and offering clarity , AFIA helped importers forefend panic and confidently voyage the uncertainty , ensuring the diligence stayed inform and prepare .
" These tariff could have imposed severe financial stress on bloom importers and the full flowered supplying concatenation , " said Christine Boldt , Executive Vice President . " When a crisis hit the floral signification industry , who do you call ? Who can supply resolution to your dubiousness ? AFIA is the organisation members enumerate on to respond promptly to address the challenge , no matter how unexpected . "
Background on the purpose tariffsThe propose tariff stemmed from diplomatic tension between the U.S. and Colombia over repatriation flights , which were ab initio blank out by the Colombian political science . The situation later Delaware - escalate after Colombia agreed to take on all individuals exile from the United States .
President Trump proposed a 25 % tariff on all Colombian products , with plan to increase to 50 % within a week .
Industry impactThe tariff would have contribute to cost increase for blossom importers during peak season . With Colombia as the primary supplier and 91 % of imported flowers entering through Miami , the tariffs would have disrupt not only the floral supplying mountain range but also Florida ’s economy .
Next stepsAFIA will go on to supervise U.S. – Colombia discussions , preach for the U.S. floral industry , and equipping members with well timed update and resources to be cook , should a similar berth arise .
" billet like this underscore the value of AFIA rank , where timely information allows importer to make prepare , confident decision rather than reacting to uncertainty , " state Rodrigo Leiva , President of the Board . " AFIA is here to see our members can adjust and thrive , no matter the challenges . "
For more information : Association of Floral Importers of Americawww.weareafia.org
