May 2 (Reuters) - The Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America trade group (FDRA)

urged U.S. President Donald Trump to exempt shoes from reciprocal tariffs in a letter signed by

makers including Nike ( NKE ), Adidas America and Skechers.

WHY IT'S IMPORTANT

The FDRA letter, dated April 29, was signed by 76 footwear companies such as Deckers Brands

, Capri Holdings ( CPRI ), Under Armour ( UAA ), and VF Corp. ( VFC )

The trade group said that the industry already faces significant levies, including

children's shoes, which often have rates of 20%, 37.5%, or higher, before accounting for the new

tariffs.

CONTEXT

President Trump had imposed broad-based tariffs on goods from major U.S. trading partners,

potentially leading to a rise in prices.

Trump had instituted sweeping tariffs in early April, including 145% tariffs to imports from

China.

China's Commerce Ministry said on Friday that Beijing was "evaluating" an offer from

Washington to hold talks over Trump's crippling tariffs.

Adidas, on Tuesday, held back from raising its 2025 financial forecasts despite strong

first-quarter results, citing the uncertainty around U.S. import tariffs.

Similarly, Skechers also withdrew its annual forecasts, citing the Trump administration's

erratic trade policy.

KEY QUOTE

"Given the nature of the U.S. footwear industry, American footwear businesses and families

face an existential threat from such substantial cost increases. Hundreds of businesses face the

prospect of closure," said the letter.

WHAT'S NEXT

The letter asks for "a more targeted approach, focused on strategic items rather than basic

consumer goods."