Fragrance Creators Association has successfully protected essential oils and fragrance-related materials from a 25% increase in E.U. tariffs—an estimated $91.1 million savings for the fragrance industry. In an official notice today in the Federal Register, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) finalized the E.U. 301 list, which takes effect October 18, 2019. Essential oils (and all imports under HTS 3301) will not receive an increased tariff rate.
 
Fragrance Creators took early, decisive action on the proposed tariffs, directly engaging with the USTR, the Department of Commerce and members of Congress on behalf of the fragrance industry and the public. In addition to submitting written comments and taking part in meetings with officials and legislators earlier this year, Fragrance Creators president & CEO Farah K. Ahmed testified before USTR in May 2019, as did Fragrance Creators Board Members Al Bauer of Citrus and Allied Essences Ltd. and Erica Lermond of The Lermond Company, LLC. Ahmed emphasized Fragrance Creators’ support of the Administration’s goal of promoting US manufacturing while illustrating why tariffs on essential oils would be counterproductive and would negatively impact American businesses and consumers.
 
Fragrance Creators will continue to engage with key administration officials and the Congressional Fragrance Caucus to advocate for the removal of any tariff-related cost increases that may compromise the competitiveness of American manufacturers, stifle job creation and jeopardize the growth of the US economy.
 
“We acknowledge the Administration, including the Department of Commerce and USTR, for sharing with us their priorities, challenges and approach toward job creation and growing the US economy,” said Ahmed. “Through these meaningful interactions, we were able to find common ground and, ultimately, ensure the needs of the fragrance industry and the American consumer were prioritized.”