The Battle of Fair Trade: How One Businessman is Fighting Back

In the heart of Savannah, Georgia, a unique story unfolds. It is about a man who started a clothing line while serving in the military. Tyler Merritt founded Nine Line Apparel in his garage, focusing on honoring service members. This brand quickly gained popularity, appealing not just to veterans but to millions of Americans who wanted to celebrate the sacrifices of those who served. Merritt, a retired Army Apache pilot, named his brand after the military code for evacuating wounded soldiers. This name carries a deep meaning, reflecting the brand's mission to honor and support service members. The first retail store opened on a charming cobblestone street in Savannah. In just a few years, Nine Line expanded to a massive 60, 000-square-foot facility, producing apparel that celebrated the United States and its service members. One of the key aspects of Nine Line is its commitment to ethical sourcing and hiring military veterans. Merritt ensures that the products are made with integrity, which sets his brand apart in the competitive apparel market. This ethical approach is also at the core of Merritt's views on tariffs and fair trade. Merritt believes that the general practice of supply and demand assumes a level playing field. However, he argues that this is not the case when some retailers rely on cheap, unethically sourced products. This gives them an unfair advantage, which is not just about cost but also about ethics. Merritt points out that the demand for these products remains high, but consumers often choose the cheapest option, which may be made using exploitative practices. The issue of tariffs and fair trade is complex. Merritt highlights a significant loophole that allows products worth less than $800 to enter the country duty-free. This rule, which has been in place for nearly a century, benefits countries like China, where cheap, poorly made products can enter the market without paying import taxes. This loophole has been exploited, leading to a shift in manufacturing overseas and a decline in U. S. manufacturing jobs. The impact of this shift is evident in the decline of manufacturing jobs in the United States. In 1970, 26% of American workers were in the manufacturing sector. Today, that number has dropped to just 8%. This decline has had a profound effect on communities, leaving many skilled workers without opportunities. Merritt sees the current focus on tariffs and fair trade as a step in the right direction to create more job opportunities for U. S. manufactured goods. Merritt is not alone in his fight for fair trade. He stands with steelworkers, ranchers, shrimp boaters, and other manufacturers who have been affected by China's practices. They are all looking toward trade laws that can level the playing field. Merritt predicts that companies like Shein, which have benefited from these loopholes, will face challenges, while ethical brands like Nine Line will thrive. The battle for fair trade is ongoing, but Merritt's story shows that it is possible to create a successful business while maintaining ethical standards. His commitment to honoring service members and supporting veterans is a testament to his values and the values of his brand. As the debate over tariffs and fair trade continues, Merritt's voice is an important one, advocating for a level playing field and ethical business practices.