Some 130 brands, chains and trade associations have formed the American for Affordable Products Coalition. The membership roster already boasts some of the biggest names in the industry, including, LVMH, Gap Inc., Levi Strauss & Co., Nike Inc., QVC and Ikea North America, to name a few.Powerhouse U.S and Canadian retailers are also backing the initiative, including Target Corp, Wal-Mart Stores Inc, Neiman Marcus Group Inc., Kohl’s Department Stores Inc., Dillard’s, Macy’s Inc., Ross Stores, Sears Holding Co. The Bon Ton Stores Inc. and Hudson Bay’s Company.

The BAT especially has retailers and apparel manufacturers nervous because of how it could impact the elaborate system of imports, exports and outsourcing they rely on to control their costs and price points. Currently …