“Red light, green light,” seems to be the theme when it comes to the ever-changing tariff landscape. And if you’re an industry group like the National Marine Manufacturers Association, that makes advocating for members a challenge.
Now that the Trump administration is signaling a let-up in the trade war it fired off April 2, NMMA has had a chance to assess the situation and its effects on the industry.
Robyn Boerstling, NMMA senior vice president of government relations, this week spoke with Trade Only Today to provide an update on the tariff situation and what the organization is doing to help members survive the chaotic nature of trade policies.
This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
What are the most challenging aspects of advocating for members regarding tariffs?
The greatest challenge is navigating the uncertainty and unpredictability of shifting tariff policies. The recent rollout of universal tariffs, reinstatement of tariffs on aluminum and steel, the evolving stance toward China, and the lack of clear implementation guidelines are creating a strain on boatbuilders, component suppliers and engine manufacturers. We’re also working to prevent the retaliatory tariffs that the E.U. and Canada have proposed.
Where does the industry stand as far as what tariffs remain in place and those that are on hold?
A universal 10% tariff remains in place on all imports while the administration negotiates country-specific deals. For China, however, tariffs have sharply increased, reaching 145% on some product categories and more for those marine parts that still face Section 301 tariffs.
Electronics, copper and semiconductor components were granted short-term exemptions, but those are temporary and face new Section 232 investigations. For the marine industry, this could mean higher input costs, particularly for components like wiring harnesses, GPS units and LED lighting.
Among the tariffs that are on hold, such as technology and semiconductor imports from China, which ones will likely come back in some form?
Technology and electronic components are likely to face renewed scrutiny. While the current exemptions are helpful, NMMA expects many of these tariffs, especially those tied to national security concerns or strategic industries, to return, possibly in a more targeted form. We are urging the administration to consider permanent relief for marine-specific products that are not in sensitive sectors.
We’ve interviewed several small, marine-business owners recently, and they’re coping, but some express deep concern. What would you tell them?
We hear those concerns and are fighting on their behalf. Ninety-five percent of boats sold in the U.S. are made in America, but manufacturers still rely on a global supply chain. We’re working every day to make sure policymakers understand that. While it’s a tough environment, there is strength in our industry’s unity, and NMMA is pushing for a more stable trade policy that provides businesses certainty and supports American jobs and innovation.
Do you think the China, Canada and Mexico tariffs show any signs of letting up in the next few months?
We’re seeing positive momentum with Canada and Mexico — our top trading partners — given the importance of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. But the outlook with China is more complex. Tariffs on Chinese goods are unlikely to ease soon, especially in politically sensitive categories. That’s why NMMA continues to advocate for a targeted approach that doesn’t punish U.S. manufacturers unnecessarily.
How about U.S.-based boatbuilders who import from Taiwan, Turkey, Malaysia — what are they currently facing?
Those countries fall under the 10% universal tariff until July 8, unless a country-specific agreement is reached. While less severe than China’s rates, the lack of clarity around deal timelines and implementation procedures is still disrupting supply chains. We’re pushing for transparent timelines and exemptions for marine-related imports that are not part of broader geopolitical concerns.
What is NMMA able to accomplish in terms of the tariff issue — is it mainly parlaying with reps, or does it go higher up than that?
NMMA’s advocacy spans all levels, from Capitol Hill to the White House to federal agencies like the U.S. Trade Representative and Department of Commerce, and even in the states before governors’ offices. We submit formal comments, provide economic impact data and coordinate directly with policymakers to protect U.S. marine manufacturing. Our recent engagement on the Section 232 copper investigation and work around reciprocal tariff negotiations are examples of our direct, high-level involvement.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
The recreational boating industry generates $230 billion in economic activity annually, supports more than 812,000 American jobs, and is heavily small business. NMMA remains committed to working with the administration and Congress to ensure that trade policies support innovation, boater access, and the competitiveness of our uniquely American industry.
