ARLINGTON, VA – March 24, 2026 – Gary Shapiro, Executive Chair and CEO, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, issued the following statement on U.S. government efforts at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to make its moratorium on e-commerce custom duties permanent.

“The U.S. government can deliver a major win for American businesses and consumers by making the WTO moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions permanent. Consumers increasingly buy services digitally, often through connected devices, and from innovative startups. Keeping digital trade tariff-free ensures Americans can access the affordable, cutting-edge tools, and services they love and rely on.

As AI becomes more embedded in our everyday lives, demand for digital services will only grow. CTA’s 2026 Industry Forecast projects consumers will spend nearly $200 billion in 2026 alone. That makes it even more important to limit new barriers that would raise costs and limit choice, and the Trump Administration’s efforts to secure commitments from trading partners in support of a permanent moratorium is welcome and necessary.

For nearly three decades, the e-commerce moratorium has supported strong economic growth, innovation, and opportunity for startups and small businesses. Making it permanent provides the certainty businesses need and reinforces a simple principle: the digital economy works best when it remains open, consistent, and accessible.”

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)^®:   
As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 17 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.