Manufacturing/Manufacturing-Related Activity (includes simple to advanced)
Manufacturing activities can range from simple to advanced.
A manufacturing operation involves several steps: sourcing of raw materials; preliminary processing, production, and assembly; quality control and testing; labeling and packaging; distribution/transportation, and post-sale follow-up. To enable this manufacturing process requires several support functions: research & development (R&D) and product design; human resources; tax; environment, health & safety (EH&S); marketing & sales; and governance/executive leadership.*
Each step of the manufacturing process and each support function is subject to regulation at the federal, state, and/or local/municipal level of government and is also impacted (directly or indirectly) by regulations and regulatory decisions imposed by governments of other countries.*
It is a good idea to seek legal counsel to make sure that you are in compliance.
Transaction Privilege (Sales) Tax Exemptions for Manufacturing
The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008 authorized a variety of new regulations and testing requirements for children’s products and some non-children’s products. If you are a manufacturer, importer, distributor, or retailer of consumer goods, all of your products must comply with the CPSIA and other laws enforced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Arizona Manufacturing Extension Partnership (Arizona MEP), a program of the Arizona Commerce Authority, whose mission is to make every Arizona manufacturer the most successful business it can be. (21)
Arizona Commerce Authority: Manufacturing Programs
Arizona Manufacturers Council (AMC): The Arizona Manufacturers Council, the official state affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers, is the voice of Arizona manufacturing. They aim to promote and enhance a positive business climate for manufacturing and related industries that operate within Arizona. (20)
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM): Nation’s largest industrial trade association representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. They are a resource, advocate and a one-stop shop for manufacturers and manufacturing. (20)
Local First Arizona is a nonprofit organization that celebrates independent, locally owned businesses. The Business Directory (in the "Find" tab drop-down menu) includes an Arizona Made category. (22)
Federal Trade Commission: Complying with the Made in USA Standard: Marketers and manufacturers that promote their products as Made in USA must meet the “all or virtually all” standard. This publication offers practical guidance on Made in USA claims. (20)