Dear AHPA members and friends:

As we approach the end of a year defined by both profound change and meaningful growth, I find myself reflecting on the enduring legacy of AHPA's late, longtime President Michael McGuffin. I have shared before that I think of Michael's impact on the herbal products industry as a garden — one he carefully cultivated over decades of service and generously invited all of us to help grow. As we look toward the new year, the AHPA team and I remain committed to tending to this garden to ensure that responsible commerce, sound policy, and consumer access can flourish.

There was no shortage of challenges in 2025 but there were also real and important successes. This year reinforced a truth that has long defined AHPA: our greatest strength lies in our collective efforts. Our recent progress in securing immediate relief through FDA enforcement discretion from the challenges surrounding DSHEA disclaimer label placement is a clear example of what's possible when our industry speaks with one voice. By standing with our colleagues at CHPA, CRN, NPA, and UNPA, we demonstrated the power of coalition building and the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful regulatory reform.

The same was true as AHPA helped build and lead coalitions to address the sweeping tariff impacts felt across the herbal products industry this year. In April, herbal products were subject to widespread tariffs with virtually no exemptions. Through sustained engagement and partnership with ASTA, USTA, NCA, CMAA, and CCA, we end the year in a far stronger position with dozens of botanicals now fully exempt from reciprocal tariffs. That progress matters, and it happened because of shared resolve and coordinated advocacy.

Whether we are advocating for tariff relief on "unavailable natural resources," navigating evolving FDA policy, or preparing for what lies ahead, AHPA's work is rooted in the spirit of partnership. We will continue to build coalitions and strengthen relationships to help amplify our collective impact to secure additional wins for our growing industry.

We have much to celebrate, from our growing membership to deeper engagement with policymakers in Washington, D.C. Yet, as we move into 2026 — a pivotal year for tariffs, AI, hemp, broader regulatory reform, and more — our work is far from finished. AHPA will remain dedicated in its mission to advocate for you and for the responsible herbal products industry we all care deeply about.

Thank you for your continued support and your shared commitment to ensuring our families, friends, and neighbors everywhere have access to safe, high-quality herbal products and dietary supplements. Together, we are securing a bright future for our industry and ensuring Michael's garden thrives for generations to come.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a healthy, prosperous New Year.

With gratitude,
Graham