The evolving regulatory landscape in the United States is increasingly influential for global fashion and textile businesses. At the UKFT Regulation Summit 2026 on 9 June in London, Chelsea Murtha of the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) brings a critical US perspective to the conversation on circularity, trade, and compliance.

A policy voice at the centre of industry change

Chelsea Murtha serves as AAFA’s advocate and spokesperson on sustainability, product safety and chemical management. Her work spans engagement with Congress, federal agencies, state governments and international stakeholders, positioning her at the forefront of regulatory developments affecting the apparel and footwear sector.

She also leads AAFA’s Environmental Committee and Product Safety Council, working directly with brands navigating complex and fast-moving policy requirements.

With an MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science and a BA from George Washington University, Chelsea combines policy expertise with a strong understanding of international systems and trade dynamics.

Understanding the US context

The US market is entering a new phase of regulatory scrutiny, with growing momentum behind circular textile systems, extended producer responsibility and stricter sustainability disclosures.

Chelsea’s session will explore:

• How federal and state-level regulation is shaping circular textile systems in the US
• The intersection of trade policy and sustainability goals
• Implications for UK and EU businesses operating in or exporting to the US
• What brands should prioritise to remain compliant and competitive

Representing over 1,100 brands and a sector contributing more than $523 billion in annual US retail sales, AAFA offers a direct line of sight into how policy decisions translate into industry action.

Panel contribution: extended producer responsibility

Chelsea will also join a panel on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) alongside industry bodies including AAFA, Euratex, Reconomy and UKFT.

This discussion will examine how EPR frameworks are developing globally, what lessons can be drawn across regions, and how businesses can prepare for increased accountability across product lifecycles.

About the UKFT Regulation Summit

The UKFT Regulation Summit ‘Exploring the legislative landscape of circular textiles’, will bring together UK, EU and US regulatory experts, including speakers from the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), SUEZ and the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (Euratex), alongside compliance specialists and sustainability professionals to provide an international update on the evolving regulatory landscape for apparel and textile businesses. The event is designed to prepare stakeholders across the industry, with insights into upcoming legislation, compliance expectations and strategic implications for the sector.

This event is supported by Valpak by Reconomy, with thanks to Istituto Marangoni.

This is a paid for event. Prices are as follows:

• UKFT member price £150 + VAT and booking fee
• UKFT retail partner price £185 + VAT and booking fee

This is an event for UKFT members only and is specifically for businesses placing finished product on the consumer market. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Refunds will not be accepted.

UKFT members: Contact info@ukft.org for your link to book.

UKFT REGULATION SUMMIT