Article

With the new reciprocal tariffs set to go into effect tomorrow, below is a recap of important guidence and a summary of how countries are responding to the new tariffs. 

On April 5, a new 10% baseline tariff on all imported goods went into effect. Additional tariffs, including some that range up to 34% on Chinese imports, for example, will take effect tomorrow, April 9. It is important to note that if the product is in transit, meaning on the vessel and heading to the U.S. by April 5, it should not be subject to the additional 10% and reciprocal tariffs. Similarly, if the product has left the port and is on the vessel by midnight tonight, it will not be subject to the new reciprocal tariff amount.

The administration has noted that some nations are responding and beginning to negotiate with the White House. However, other countries have announced or are preparing to announce countermeasures on US-made products:

• Canada: At this time, no retaliation on US-made boats. 
• China: 34% tariff on ALL U.S. goods starting April 10.
  • Note: Yesterday, President Trump threatened China with an additional 50% tariff if China moves forward on its countermeasures.
• EU: Press reports indicate the EU will place a 25% on U.S. boats. At this time, an official list of products has yet to be released. The EU has spent the last week refining its tariff response, making changes from its original list it was considering reimposing from 2018.

Trade policy will be a key topic at the upcoming 2025 American Boating Congress (May 12–14, Washington, D.C.). Register here to participate and make your voice heard. Industry members are encouraged to contact elected officials directly to share how the tariffs are impacting their businesses.

For guidance or assistance with outreach, members can contact NMMA’s Senior Director of Public Policy, Clay Crabtree, at [email protected].