ECIA Issues Statement on Trump Administration’s Section 301 Findings on China’s Trade Policies 

Atlanta, GA – The Electronic Component Industry Association (ECIA) has issued a statement by its President & CEO Bill Bradford, about the recent actions taken by the United States and China regarding tariffs. The Electronic Components Industry Association (ECIA) is a global association of manufacturers, distributors and manufacturers’ representatives whose mission is to support the authorized sale of electronic components to the end customer.

“The ECIA is concerned with intellectual property protection and unfair and discriminatory business practices in China and is evaluating the Administration’s Section 301 findings. Government policies that unfairly tilt competition threaten to stifle and chill innovation in a vibrant and fast-paced global marketplace. Electronic components are the heartbeat of technological innovation and continued global economic growth. In today’s digital world, nearly every industry utilizes electronic components and the supply chain for such components is globally interconnected and complex. As a result, the imposition of tariffs on electronic components will have global consequences for businesses and consumers alike, adding friction and costs to the supply chain that can hinder economic growth for all involved.

“ECIA supports a ‘level playing field’ for all businesses. The unauthorized transfer of technology often leads to counterfeiting, particularly the counterfeiting of electronic components. Counterfeit electronic components pose a significant public health/safety and national security risks, including cyber-security concerns.  The association supports a bilateral trade agreement that protects intellectual property rights, promotes fair business practices, and combats counterfeiting. ECIA’s mission to support and promote the authorized channel for electronic components is consistent with this viewpoint.

“China is an important participant in the global electronic component supply chain. Both China and the United States benefit when economic competition is non-discriminatory and supports the authorized manufacture of electronic components.”