SEMA Warns Current Tariffs Are a Tax on American Companies and Consumers

SEMA Warns Current Tariffs Are a Tax on American Companies and Consumers

SEMA states that SEMA member companies are now grappling with higher-priced steel and aluminum because of global tariffs.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) cautioned President Donald Trump and the U.S. Congress that tariffs imposed by the U.S. government are harming American companies, workers and consumers. SEMA member companies are now grappling with higher-priced steel and aluminum because of global tariffs. The U.S. government has also initiated questionable tariffs on Chinese products, and retaliatory tariffs levied by China and many American allies are in the works. Beyond that, the U.S. government is now threatening tariffs of up to 25 percent on imported automobiles and auto parts.

“The United States has helped create a global free trade system that includes mechanisms for addressing unfair trade practices,” said SEMA President and CEO Christopher J. Kersting. “SEMA cautions the president and lawmakers to work with our trading partners and employ U.S. law judiciously. The current tariffs are a tax on American companies and consumers that are causing unnecessary harm.”

President Trump has directed the U.S. Department of Commerce to investigate whether imported automobiles and auto parts pose a threat to America’s national security. While the premise of the investigation has not been clearly communicated, imposing tariffs would have damaging consequences for the industry and automotive enthusiasts.

SEMA states that SEMA member companies employ over one million Americans who produce, sell and install specialty auto parts on every type of automobile built in the U.S. and overseas. Products range from custom wheels to turbochargers, lighting equipment, exhaust systems, suspensions, truck caps, mobile electronics and other parts that enhance a vehicle’s appearance and performance. The supply chain for these parts is global, integrated and complex. Beyond domestic sales, SEMA member companies have a robust export market.

According to SEMA, SEMA members have seen steep price hikes for steel and aluminum and are now having to make tough decisions about passing those costs along to the consumer. Marketplace confusion with respect to country exemptions and company exclusions remains unresolved. A new set of tariffs is now being imposed on Chinese products, but it is unclear how they will address intellectual property threats and free market access.

“SEMA welcomes efforts by the U.S. government to protect American companies and their customers from unfair trading practices,” said Kersting. “We urge the president and Congress to pursue trade infringements in a fashion that does not inflict unintended economic harm.”

You May Also Like

NABC Donates Recycled Ride to Tucson, Ariz. Family

The NABC, Allstate, Maaco and  Meineke Car Care recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a deserving Tucson, Ariz.-area mom.

The National Auto Body Council (NABC), along with Allstate, Maaco and Meineke Car Care, recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a deserving Tucson, Ariz.-area mom via the NABC's Recycled Rides program. The presentation was held at the Meineke Car Care center in Tucson.

Johana Aguilar, a mother of four, was nominated as what the Child and Family Resources agency called “the perfect candidate” for the Recycled Rides program. Two of her four children require special schooling and medical appointments, and her husband has been ill. The only vehicle they have had has been unreliable. This fully refurbished 2016 Jeep Compass will ease her life tremendously. Freedom Brands owns four Maaco centers and five Meineke Car Care centers throughout the greater Phoenix and Tucson regions. 

ASE Practice Tests Available Online

ASE is encouraging those pursuing certification to take the official practice tests as part of their test preparation process.

Corby’s Collision Center: Since 1942

Bentley (Bud) and Evelyn Corby started Corby’s in a little gas station in Honeoye Falls, N.Y.

CIF Announces Enterprise as Repeat Annual Donor

Enterprise has donated for the fourth consecutive time at the Urgent Care (second highest) tier.

NABC Donates Recycled Ride to Central Georgia Mom

The NAB), GEICO and Five Star Collision Center-Wimbish recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a deserving mother of four.

Other Posts

NABC Donates Recycled Rides at NORTHEAST Show

The NABC, GEICO, Mountain View Auto and Collision Center of New Jersey donated two refurbished vehicles at the recent NORTHEAST Show.

Crash Champions Expands in Idaho

Crash Champions has announced the acquisition of Addison Collision Repair in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Auto Care Association Welcomes GAO Report on Vehicle Repair Restrictions

The Auto Care Association is renewing its call for Congress to advance federal Right to Repair legislation that protects independent business owners and consumers.

ProColor Collision Welcomes First Shop in Montana

ProColor Collision Gallatin Valley is operated by Robert Rinta and Simon Gratch, who both served honorably in the Montana National Guard.