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Several witnesses, including Harley-Davidson CFO Jonathan Root and Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chair Robby Kirkland, highlighted real-world impacts of foreign tariffs and regulatory hurdles. They stressed the need for science-based trade standards and reciprocal treatment to protect competitiveness in key global markets.

 

Republicans emphasized the need to revive trade talks and address unfair barriers that limit U.S. exports—particularly for agriculture, manufacturing, and digital services. Democrats focused on reasserting congressional authority, raising concerns over unilateral executive actions and their consequences for trade stability and global partnerships.

 

The boating industry was briefly mentioned by Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC):

 

"Now Mr. Root, I won't make you repeat this but we're—Harley-Davison is doing the same—facing the same things that so much of our boat industry in eastern North Carolina is facing as far as challenges with getting out exports overseas."

 

The hearing also featured calls to resume stalled negotiations with the UK and Indo-Pacific partners and update trade statutes to reflect modern supply chain realities. Members on both sides of the aisle noted that American companies—and the jobs they support—depend on consistent, enforceable trade rules that prioritize U.S. interests.

 

NMMA continues to monitor trade developments closely, as retaliatory tariffs and non-tariff barriers remain a significant concern for the U.S. recreational boating industry. NMMA remains committed to advocating for fair and balanced trade policies that support American boat builders, drive innovation, and promote long-term industry growth.

 

For more information on NMMA’s trade advocacy or to share how trade policy impacts your business, please contact NMMA Senior Director of Public Policy Clay Crabtree at [email protected].

 

For more information, you can watch the full hearing here.