NMMA Testifies Before USTR on Section 301 Investigation

On Thursday, NMMA testified before the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), and several other federal agencies, in response to its Section 301 investigation into structural excess capacity and production in manufacturing sectors. NMMA focused on the importance of providing businesses with certainty between key trading partners and the industry's global supply chain.

Currently, there are two ongoing Section 301 investigations - focusing on industrial excess capacity and forced labor - into dozens of the industry's top trading partners. Acting Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations Clay Crabtree used his testimony to highlight the economic impact of the recreational boating industry, the industry's support for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA), and concern over reports of increased imports of illegal boats.

In his remarks, Crabtree noted, "Our members operate deeply integrated North American supply chains with carefully sourced global suppliers, sell into markets governed by trade agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)…North American integration based on USMCA rules works for U.S. manufacturers and exporters. When mutual recognition and streamlined certification processes are in place, trade flows increase, compliance remains robust, and U.S. exports grow."

In addition to USTR, several federal agencies had representatives in attendance, including the Departments of Commerce, State, Homeland Security, Treasury, and others. This hearing follows NMMA's submission of comments in April on both investigations, and NMMA will be prepared to file additional comments once the results of the investigations are announced. U.S. Trade Ambassador Greer has indicated that the administration intends to conduct these investigations on an "accelerated timeframe" - which could result in new tariffs just as the Section 122 tariffs expire in July.

To continue supporting NMMA comments and storytelling highlighting the potential impact additional tariffs could have on the U.S. marine industry, please contact NMMA's Clay Crabtree, Acting Vice President of Public Policy & Government Relations, at?[email protected].