See the Big Picture: I3A & Government Affairs

Capitol BuildingRepresenting the imaging industry to government bodies is one of the major activities of the Association. As the industry voice, I3A cooperates with legislative committees and works with administrative agencies, regulatory bodies and other governmental groups in the United States and worldwide. I3A’s views have credibility and are often sought by government bodies before legislation or regulations are proposed. I3A testifies and submits statements in support of industry positions, using materials generated by our membership. The cooperation and rapport between I3A and government departments and agencies give I3A special insight, and thus the flexibility to adapt to an ever-changing industry and a diversity of projects.

Over the years the association has achieved considerable success in dealing with governments. Significant areas where I3A has impact are:

  • International Trade
  • Environmental Protection & Regulation
  • Safety and Health
  • Airport & Transportation Security
  • Silver Legislation

Trade Issues

I3A is ever watchful of "well intentioned" efforts by government bodies. For example, I3A represents the industry’s interests to the World Customs Organization, to help ensure that the Harmonized System continues to represent a fair and equitable set of trade classifications for imaging goods.

Timely industry response by I3A to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has headed off inclusion of photo processing equipment in a list of items targeted for punitive tariffs in an international trade dispute.

I3A alerted all of its members who would be affected, and raised awareness of the situation with other industry organizations. A formal position statement was submitted by I3A to the Chairman of the USTR Section 301 committee, strenuously objecting to the inclusion of important photographic products in the trade dispute.

I3A pointed out that the punitive tariff, 100% of the imported value, would effectively halt imports of the photographic processing apparatus and equipment covered and would cause harm to many businesses.

As a result of I3A’s actions in concert with other trade associations, the USTR removed the photoproccessing apparatus and equipment from the list of targeted products.