The long-running tariff battle between the U.S. and the European Union, which threatened to unfairly sweep powersports products and parts into the fray – and potentially, dramatically, raise costs for manufacturers, distributors, and consumers – has simmered down following recent high-level meetings in Brussels, Belgium.
Both sides announced a cooperative framework to address large-civil-aircraft disputes between Boeing and Airbus, along with a five-year suspension of tariffs and a move “away from past confrontation in pursuit of a cooperative future,” according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
“It was great news to hear that the relationship between the U.S. and E.U. has improved and allowed for sensible discussions regarding a proper resolution of the Airbus/Boeing dispute,” said John Hinz, CEO of KTM North America, Inc. “KTM North America, our dealers, and the MIC strongly opposed the implementation of unrelated tariffs that would negatively affect the motorcycle industry, our dealers, and jobs across America. We sincerely appreciate the work of all the trade representatives to resolve the issue without further and additional unrelated tariffs.”
Source: Motorcycle Industry Council