The Federal Trade Commission is putting companies on notice that if you lean on Made in USA as a selling point, you need to be able to prove it, or face real financial and reputational risk. In July 2025, the agency warned brands and online marketplaces that it is intensifying enforcement of its Made in USA Labeling Rule, issuing warning letters and highlighting record penalties to drive compliance.
What The FTC Requires For “Made in USA” Claims
Under the Made in USA Labeling Rule, an unqualified Made in USA claim is only lawful when all three conditions are met: final assembly or processing happens in the United States, all significant processing occurs in the United States, and all or virtually all ingredients or components are made and sourced in the United States.
If a product does not fully meet those standards, brands must use qualified claims (for example, stating that…
a product is assembled in the USA with imported materials) that clearly and accurately describe the amount and type of U.S. content. The rule applies to explicit phrases like Made in USA and to implied origin claims that lean on U.S. flags, maps, or place names in a way that suggests full domestic origin.
July 2025: Warning Letters And Marketplace Pressure “‘Made in the USA’ is not just a slogan – it’s a sign that a product connects us to the workers and businesses that make America great,” said FTC Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson.
“Consumers want to have confidence that when they buy something labelled ‘Made in the USA’ they are actually supporting American workers and the American economy.
Companies that falsely claim their products are ‘Made in the USA’ can expect to hear from the FTC.” Soon after, the FTC sent warning letters to four companies, flagpole maker Americana Liberty, furniture producer Oak Street Manufacturing, sports surface supplier Pro Sports Group, and paper products firm USA Big Mountain Paper, flagging questionable Made in USA representations and reminding them of their obligations under the rule…
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