Against a backdrop of US protectionist trade policies, CEDIA has returned to Capitol Hill to advocate for tariff exclusions, workforce development, and technology innovation.
During its second annual Smart Home Day in Washington D.C. last month, CEDIA brought together manufacturers, industry leaders, and board members to meet with US lawmakers. A key focus was reinstating tariff exclusions, a policy measure used during Donald Trump’s previous administration.
While this particular initiative is centred on North America, the consequences of US tariffs are being felt globally. Trump’s trade policies have already sparked concern among international markets, and CEDIA's intervention highlights industry fears that essential technologies could become more expensive or harder to source.
The organisation also voiced support for the CHIPS and Science Act - aimed at bolstering domestic semiconductor manufacturing - and the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, which would expand the use of 529 savings accounts to be used for technical training and certification.
Daryl Friedman, global president and CEO of CEDIA, said: “With changes in government and evolving policy landscapes, it’s more important than ever that we proactively engage with lawmakers to shape the future of our industry.”
While CEDIA’s Capitol Hill efforts are primarily geared toward the US legislative environment, the outcome of these advocacy efforts could have broader implications for smart home professionals across EMEA, particularly around supply chains and pricing.