The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has named Katherine White as the new Chief Textiles and Apparel Negotiator.
White, formerly an International Trade Policy Advisor on the House Committee on Ways and Means, brings extensive experience in trade policy matters. United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting the textile industry’s revitalization and resilience.
White’s role will involve negotiating international trade agreements to benefit US domestic textile producers and open foreign markets.
During her tenure with the House Ways and Means Committee, White played a pivotal role in shaping US trade laws, contributing to key agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Her expertise in trade legislation and engagement with industry stakeholders make her well-suited for her new role.
Prior to her congressional service, White began her career in public service through the Presidential Management Fellowship at the International Trade Administration, US Department of Commerce. She also gained experience at the National Economic Council and various Washington, DC-based think tanks.
With a Master of Public Policy from Duke University and Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and International Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, White brings a solid academic background to her new position.
Kim Glas, president and CEO of the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), praised White’s appointment, highlighting her suitability for the role and the significance of the position being elevated to a political appointee role. White’s appointment is expected to have a substantial impact on shaping policies affecting the textile industry, reflecting the administration’s commitment to supporting American manufacturers.