The Federal Trade Commission announced on July 8, 2025 that it had sent warning letters to four companies that claim their consumer goods are of USA origin, and separate letters to Amazon and Walmart about third-party sellers that appear to be making deceptive “Made in USA” claims on their marketplaces.
Who got letters
The FTC named four recipients: flagpole retailer Americana Liberty, footwear maker Oak Street Manufacturing, LLC, football equipment company Pro Sports Group LLC, and personal care products manufacturer USA Big Mountain Paper Inc. The letters told them to stop their claims or provide substantiation that the products are “all or virtually all” made in the USA. Warning letters are not findings of a violation.
The letters to Amazon and Walmart explained how the Made in USA requirements apply to online marketplaces and identified third-party sellers that may be making deceptive USA-origin claims. The FTC noted those claims may also break the platforms’ own terms of service.
“Companies that falsely claim their products are ‘Made in the USA’ can expect to hear from the FTC.”
Andrew N. Ferguson, FTC Chairman
Why it matters for Made in USA
Online marketplaces are where many false origin claims live. A seller can type “Made in USA” into a listing in seconds, and shoppers have no easy way to check it. By putting Amazon and Walmart on notice, the FTC signaled that platforms share responsibility for what is sold under their banner.
The consequences are real. The FTC said violations of the FTC Act and the Made in USA Labeling Rule can lead to administrative subpoenas, federal lawsuits, injunctions and civil penalties. For legitimate makers, that enforcement helps level the playing field against sellers who borrow the label without doing the work.
FAQ
Which companies received FTC Made in USA warning letters in July 2025?
Americana Liberty, Oak Street Manufacturing, LLC, Pro Sports Group LLC and USA Big Mountain Paper Inc. The FTC also sent letters to Amazon and Walmart about third-party sellers.
Is a warning letter a penalty?
No. It is a notice asking the company to stop the claims or provide substantiation. Further action can follow if the claims are not fixed.
What penalties can follow a false Made in USA claim?
The FTC said violators may face administrative subpoenas, federal lawsuits, injunctive relief and civil penalties or other monetary relief.
Source & credit
Originally published by the Federal Trade Commission on July 8, 2025: Federal Trade Commission Warns Companies to Comply with “Made in USA” Requirements