Pursuits
Retailer-Backed Coalition Launches Campaign Against Border Tax
- Groups aim to show how much legislation would cost consumers
- Tax proposal has created rift between importers and exporters
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A broad coalition of lobbyists for retailers like Wal-Mart Stores Inc., energy companies and the auto industry is launching a battle against a proposed U.S. tax on imports, aiming to sway both federal lawmakers and American consumers.
The Retail Industry Leaders Association and more than 120 other trade groups are backing the campaign, called “Americans for Affordable Products,” which will center on how a border-adjusted tax could increase prices for consumers. Part of the message: that export-focused companies may get their federal taxes drastically cut, maybe even to zero. Behind the scenes, the campaign will rely in part on lobbying by industry executives.