Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), has expressed concerns over the potential impact of increased tariffs on imports from Canada, China, and Mexico. In a statement, Shapiro highlighted that these tariffs would essentially act as taxes on American consumers rather than foreign entities. He stated, "Increasing tariffs on imports from Canada, China, and Mexico will fuel inflation and raise prices on tech products, automotive manufacturing, and services."

Shapiro further warned against the misuse of tariffs for purposes other than resolving trade disputes. He said that such actions could harm international relationships: "Misusing tariffs alienates our allies, aggravates our adversaries, closes markets to U.S. exports and investments, and weakens the global trading system that has powered America’s economic growth for decades." He emphasized that tariffs should not be used as political tools for issues unrelated to trade.

Instead of engaging in what he described as costly trade conflicts, Shapiro advocated for strengthening ties with key trading partners through free trade agreements. This approach would help align economic and foreign policy goals more effectively: "Instead of picking costly trade fights, we should strengthen relationships with our key trading partners and leverage free trade agreements to ensure that our economic and foreign policy goals can be resolved productively."

The CTA's research suggests that proposed tariffs could result in a significant decline in U.S. consumer purchasing power regarding tech devices—ranging from $90 billion to $143 billion.

The Consumer Technology Association represents North America's largest technology trade sector. It supports more than 18 million American jobs through its members who range from startups to global brands. The association is also responsible for CES—the prominent tech event known worldwide.

CES 2026 is scheduled to take place from January 6-9 in Las Vegas.