The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is reporting that the European Commission has instituted a two-week delay in implementing retaliatory tariffs on U.S.-built boats and other American products, pushing the timeline from April 1 to mid-April. This pause aligns with the expected rollout of additional U.S. reciprocal tariffs on April 2, which NMMA believes opens the door for further dialogue between the United States and the European Union.
“While this delay is not a final solution, it is a welcome sign that both sides are taking time to negotiate,” said NMMA in a post of its website. “NMMA, in close coordination with our European partner, the European Boating Industry (EBI), is using this period to press for the removal of recreational boats from the EU’s 2018 tariff list altogether.”
NMMA said the EBI has ramped up advocacy efforts in recent days, sending letters to European Commissioner for Trade Maroš Šefcovic, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, key members of the European Parliament, and national governments.
“NMMA is working in lockstep with these efforts to ensure our industry’s voice is heard,” the trade association wrote.
“Trade policy remains a top priority for NMMA as we work to protect U.S. marine manufacturing competitiveness,” the post continued. “Historically, retaliatory tariffs have hindered our industry’s ability to export American-made boats to key markets, impacting jobs and businesses across the country. We continue to advocate for fair and open trade policies that support American manufacturing, drive innovation, and keep our industry competitive on the global stage.”
NMMA said it will keep members informed as developments unfold.
Image courtesy NMMA
