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According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
\"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has drawn criticism from multinational corporations like Apple, which has supply chains linked<\/a> to the far western Xinjiang region, and from business organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Lobbyists have worked to dilute certain provisions, claiming that although they vehemently oppose forced labor and ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, the act\u2019s extensive demands could disrupt supply chains intricately tied to China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Xinjiang generates large quantities of raw materials, including cotton, coal, sugar, tomatoes, and polysilicon, and provides labor for China\u2019s clothing and shoe manufacturing. Human rights organizations and news articles have associated numerous multinational corporations with suppliers in the region, notably linking Coca-Cola to sugar sourced from Xinjiang and recording the presence of Uyghur workers at a Qingdao factory producing Nike shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a March report, the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China identified Nike and Coca-Cola among companies suspected of connections to forced labor in Xinjiang, alongside Adidas, Calvin Klein, Campbell Soup Company, Costco, H&M, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, and several others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola stated it \u201cstrictly prohibits forced labor in our supply chain\u201d and employs third-party auditors to monitor suppliers. The COFCO Tunhe facility in Xinjiang, supplying sugar to a local bottling facility and previously linked to forced labor allegations, \u201csuccessfully completed an audit in 2019.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Greg Rossiter, Nike's global communications director, stated that the company \u201cdid not lobby against\u201d the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act but engaged in \u201cconstructive discussions\u201d with congressional staff to combat forced labor and protect human rights. In response to forced labor allegations, Nike cited a March statement affirming it doesn't source from Xinjiang and confirmed its suppliers aren't using textiles or yarn from that region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nike stated that, starting in 2019, the Qingdao factory ceased recruiting new workers from Xinjiang, with an independent audit verifying that no employees from that region are currently at the facility. A March report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, referencing state media, revealed that the factory had approximately 800 Uyghur workers by the end of 2019 and manufactured over seven million pairs of shoes annually for Nike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n China\u2019s extensive efforts to suppress and forcibly assimilate Uighurs and other minorities in Xinjiang have drawn widespread condemnation from politicians and consumers globally world. However, many companies find it challenging to thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential links to forced labor due to the opacity of Chinese supply chains and the restricted access auditors have to an area where the Chinese government imposes strict limitations on individuals movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act mandates that companies exporting goods to the United States must thoroughly inspect their supply chains or potentially discontinue their relationships with Chinese suppliers entirely. It would establish stringent criteria, forbidding the import of goods produced \u201centirely or partially\u201d in Xinjiang unless companies can verify to customs officials that their items were made without the use of forced labor. The bill also addresses so-called poverty alleviation and pairing programs that transfer Muslims from impoverished areas to work in factories elsewhere, which human rights groups claim are frequently coercive. Companies would be mandated to disclose information regarding their connections to Xinjiang to the Securities and Exchange Commission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Apple, known for its deep business connections in China, has also advocated for restricting certain aspects of the bill, according to two congressional staffers and another source familiar with the matter. Disclosure forms reveal that Apple paid Fierce Government Relations, a firm managed by ex-staff aides to Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and President George W. Bush, $90,000 to lobby on matters such as legislation related to Xinjiang in the third quarter. The Washington Post previously reported on Apple\u2019s lobbying efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Apple engaged external firms to lobby for another piece of legislation: the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act of 2020. Apple refuted allegations of attempting to undermine the bill, asserting its commitment to bolstering American regulations and its belief that the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act should be enacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the March report, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighted Apple and Nike as part of 82 companies that may have directly or indirectly profited from abusive labor transfer programs linked to Xinjiang. The report indicated that O-Film Technology, a contractor for Apple, Microsoft, Google, and other firms, accepted at least 700 Uyghur workers in a program intended to' gradually change their ideology.\u201d It also linked other Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn Technology, to comparable employment initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lobbying disclosures indicate that firms have invested significantly to influence Congress regarding Xinjiang-related laws, yet they provide no details about their specific demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the first three quarters of 2020, Nike allocated $920,000 for in-house lobbying efforts directed at Congress and various federal agencies. While disclosures do not specify spending by topic, they indicate that Nike lobbied on issues such as physical education grants, taxation, climate change, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Nike allocated over $ 400,000 to external firms such as Cornerstone Government Affairs, Ogilvy, Capitol Counsel, GrayRobinson, American Continental Group, DiNino Associates, and Empire Consulting Group for lobbying on various issues, including this act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coca-Cola has made significant investments, spending $4.68 million in the first three quarters of 2020 on internal lobbying and engaging Empire Consulting Group and Sidley Austin to advocate on various related issues.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Nike, Coca-Cola lobby to weaken U.S. bill targeting forced labor in Xinjiang","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nike-coca-cola-lobby-to-weaken-u-s-bill-targeting-forced-labor-in-xinjiang","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:48:37","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7466","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7463,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:12:00","post_content":"\n This year, e-cigarette manufacturers, caught in a regulatory storm, invested millions during the first two quarters to sway government decisions, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Once celebrated as the safer option and the next step in smoking, these devices are now under examination by multiple federal agencies in the U.S. because of the significant nicotine consumption they enable and their growing appeal to teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wall Street Journal has recently disclosed that federal prosecutors are investigating e-cigarette producer Juul Labs Inc. Shortly thereafter, the company revealed that CEO Kevin Burns will be succeeded by K.C. Crosthwaite, an executive from Altria Group Inc. (MO). The statement further noted that it would cease all advertising across broadcast, print, and digital platforms in the U.S. Additionally, it will avoid lobbying the Trump administration regarding its proposed guidelines to prohibit flavored e-cigarettes in the market. The company committed to thoroughly support and adhere to the final policy when effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \"We must strive to work with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders, and earn the trust of the societies in which we operate. That includes inviting an open dialogue, listening to others and being responsive to their concerns,\u201d stated Crosthwaite. This shows a significant shift in strategy for a company that spent nearly $2 million in the first half of this year to exert influence policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, Altria, the maker of Marlboro, and Juul\u2014dominating about 70%<\/a> of the e-cigarette market\u2014invested more in lobbying than the entire tobacco industry combined, according to official data shows. Altria has always been the largest spender in the industry; however, since Juul separated from Pax Labs in 2017, its impact in Washington has significantly increased.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the first half of 2019, Juul invested $1.95 million, up from $1.64 million in 2018 and $120,000 in 2017. The company concentrated its efforts on the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, the Executive Office of the President, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Food and Drug Administration. This year, the organization employed 21 lobbyists, with 17 of them having prior government experience, as reported by the Center for Responsive Politics. Additionally, Martha Coakley, the former Attorney General of Massachusetts, joined the government affairs team in April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Businesses often raise their lobbying spending when the federal government is focused on specific issues that impact them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n According to Nielsen data reported by CNBC, NJOY Electronic Cigarettes holds an 11.6% market share in the U.S. dollar market. In the first two quarters of this year, the company spent $215,000, compared to a total expenditure of $55,000 last year, 2018. The Vapor Technology Association, self-identified as a champion for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, vape shop owners, and small business proprietors within the vapor technology sector, has witnessed its lobbying budget soar from $30,000 in 2015 to $240,000 in both 2017 and 2018, and reaching $197,500 to date in 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Among this year's top five spenders, three manufacture their own e-cigarettes, while Altria holds a 35% stake in Juul. Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) is dedicated to creating a smoke-free future and plans to introduce its IQOS smoking device in the U.S. in partnership with Altria. British American Tobacco (BTI) advocates for its subsidiary, Reynolds American, which sells the Vuse e-cigarette.<\/p>\n","post_title":"E-Cigarette giants ramp up lobbying amid federal scrutiny","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"e-cigarette-giants-ramp-up-lobbying-amid-federal-scrutiny","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-26 21:19:16","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7463","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":43},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};
Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7466,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-27 09:41:00","post_content":"\n Nike and Coca-Cola are prominent corporations actively lobbying Congress to dilute legislation that seeks to prohibit the import of goods produced using forced labor in China\u2019s Xinjiang region, based on insights from congressional staff and individuals knowledgeable about the situation, along with lobbying records indicating substantial expenditure on the legislation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bill aims to ban large categories of products produced by oppressed Muslim minorities to combat human rights violations. It has received bipartisan backing, successfully passing the House in September with a vote of 406 to 3. According to congressional aides, it has enough support to move through the Senate and may be signed into law by either the Trump administration or the incoming Biden administration<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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