The European Boating Industry (EBI) is urging stronger support for the boating sector amid challenging tariffs imposed by the US.
The EBI says it takes note of the latest announcement on trade by EU Commission President von der Leyen and US President Trump which the organisation says provides predictability and stability ahead of the important European boat show season.
In a statement, the EBI says although the tariff announcement averts the worst of a detrimental trade war, the increase of tariffs to 15% will be very challenging for many businesses and SMEs in Europe.
The organistation points out that until the US announcement in April, US tariffs were largely around 1–2%, allowing a trade relationship on an equal footing.
“Exports of recreational boats to the US in 2023 were around $1.8 billion, and the additional costs from these new tariffs will be in the tens of millions,” said the statement.
This deal is not sufficient.
Philip Easthill
“It also creates the risk of an unbalanced trade relationship between the EU and US, and negatively affects EU competitiveness.”
The US is the most important export market for the recreational boating industry in Europe, points out Philip Easthill, EBI secretary-general
“Stability and predictability is vital, but equally important is a trading environment that businesses can sustain. This deal is not sufficient,” he said.
“The 15% tariff rate presents serious challenges for businesses in Europe. We call on the EU Commission to take the announcement as the basis for more sectoral negotiations and consider the needs of export-reliant industries such as ours.”
Boating sector
And he said the EBI is committed to working with members to navigate the challenges and continue advocating for the best interests of the boating sector in Europe, while calling on authorities to make international trade easier.
“The EU and the US should focus on reducing obstacles to transatlantic trade, which will lead to significant benefits for businesses and jobs on both sides of the Atlantic,” said Philip.
“In addition, a better regulatory environment needs to be created to grow the European market, reduce red tape, and support our sector across all areas — from trade to investment, environmental and industry policy.”
