The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) sent a letter to the Administration encouraging further progress in trade negotiations to ensure sports and fitness participation, especially within youth sports, is accessible and affordable. The industry’s access to global supply chains and manufacturing capabilities is essential for American families to be able to access the products and equipment they need to stay active and healthy.
Elevated costs for essential youth sports equipment, which in some cases have risen by more than 50% over the last five years, will continue sidelining young athletes whose families can no longer afford the increased prices. Recent data from SFIA’s 2025 Topline Participation Report revealed that only 24% of children from households earning less than $25,000 per year regularly participate in sports. This number is in stark contrast to 44% of children from households earning $100,000+ regularly participating in sports.
“Lingering uncertainty around trade policies is putting youth sports participation at risk as families can no longer afford the elevated prices of essential sports equipment,” said Todd Smith, President & CEO of SFIA. “We need to ensure that sports and fitness are accessible and affordable, so America’s youth have the opportunity to experience the positive benefits provided through physical activity.”
In the letter, SFIA requested an opportunity to meet with the Administration to discuss solutions to ensure all Americans have access to the physical and mental health benefits provided by sports and fitness.