Comment from Alma Granite

Subject: Potential Action: Quartz Surface Products – Public Comment Opposing Tariffs and Quotas To the Office of the United States Trade Representative: I am writing on behalf of my business to strongly oppose the implementation of any new tariffs or import quotas on Quartz Surface Products (QSPs). As a business operating directly within the downstream market, our day-to-day operations and financial stability are heavily reliant on the steady, affordable availability of these materials. The proposed implementation of 40%–50% tariffs or restrictive import caps would have immediate, severe consequences for our business, our employees, and our customers. We urge the Administration to consider the following realistic market factors before making a final decision: Affordability and Cost Burdens: Even under current market conditions, businesses and consumers are barely affording the necessary materials. Forcing an artificial price hike via tariffs will inevitably drive up costs across the entire supply chain, making quartz surfaces prohibitively expensive and forcing us to raise prices on everyday consumers. Domestic Capacity Shortfalls: Manufacturers located within the United States simply do not have the production capacity or infrastructure required to fill the total volume demanded by the domestic market. Restricting imports will not suddenly create domestic supply; it will only result in severe material shortages, massive project delays, and cancellations. Economic Strain on Small Businesses: Imposing trade barriers will drastically reduce fabrication volumes and limit supply availability. Instead of protecting American jobs, these measures risk doing the exact opposite—threatening the viability of local fabricators, installers, and builders who depend on access to global raw materials. For the long-term health and stability of the construction and fabrication sectors, we respectfully request that the Administration maintain a zero-tariff stance and reject both additional duties and import caps on these vital products. Thank you for your time and consideration of the real-world economic impacts on downstream businesses. Alma granite 110 wooster pike Milford Ohio 45150