Avoid fireworks: Look to the FTC for help with your Made in USA claims

Regular readers know that when it comes to false “Made in USA” claims, the FTC means business. Lying about product origin hurts consumers, honest businesses, and American workers. That’s why we keep suing companies that don’t play by the rules, assessing penalties where appropriate, and returning money to consumers when we can.

But, although they make the headlines, the big cases don’t tell the whole story. We know most businesses that manufacture and create jobs in the USA want to play by the rules. And FTC staff is working behind the scenes to help.

You can browse guidance and case documents at www.ftc.gov/musa. If you can’t find what you need or still have questions, you can send us an email at musa@ftc.gov. Even though we can’t bind the Commission or preapprove claims, we will do our best to answer questions.

As part of these efforts, today we are releasing a refreshed version of our Complying with the Made in USA Standard guidance document. There you will find updated information about how consumers understand Made in USA claims, how the Commission evaluates advertisements, and how the laws and rules we enforce interact with those enforced by other agencies. Here are a few key takeaways:

• Consumer expectations control. The FTC’s job is to make sure marketers’ claims match consumer expectations. When consumers see Made in USA claims, they expect advertised products to be all, or virtually all, made in the United States. All the way back to raw materials. If that’s not true, or you’re not sure, you should make a different claim you know you can back up. Remember that just because you buy parts from U.S. suppliers doesn’t necessarily mean those parts are made in the USA.
• Violations could cost you. Companies that falsely label their products as Made in USA may have to pay civil penalties or other monetary relief.
• Imported products have different rules. If your product is imported, look to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for information on how to label it, and make sure your advertisements are consistent with your labels.
• Ask for help if you need it. Confused about how this all applies to your business?  Send us an email at musa@ftc.gov.
• See something? Please say something. If someone isn’t playing by the rules, let us know at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Despite what Miley Cyrus says, every day can’t be a party in the USA.  But, if you read the guidance and reach out when you need help, we know you’re going to be okay.