A break in the customs escalation
Faced with US President Donald Trump's decision to introduce a 90-day across-the-board âeuro tariff truce with the notable exception of âeuro Chinese products, Brussels has responded by freezing its retaliatory measures on a range of products, including US-made pleasure boats. The taxes, which ranged from 10% to 25%, had initially been revised upwards as part of counter-sanctions measures adopted in 2018.
This decision has been hailed as a sign of openness in the midst of the resumption of trade negotiations. The European Commissioner for Trade, Maros Sefcovic, recently went to Washington to start talks. "We want to give discussions a chance "said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
A breath of fresh air for the marine sector
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), which represents the North American marine industry, expressed its relief. According to the association, the freeze offers a welcome respite to builders, distributors and importers whose trade flows had been disrupted for several years.
In Europe, yachting professionals are hoping for a stabilization of the market. Ongoing uncertainty over tariffs has a direct impact on import decisions, sales forecasts and the economic viability of many distributors. For European dealers, the suspension is seen as an opportunity to relaunch commercial relations with American shipyards.
Uncertain international environment
But the lull remains fragile. While Europe and the United States are showing a willingness to engage in dialogue, the global situation remains unstable. The sudden increase in tariffs on Chinese products by the United States (up to 145%) and Beijing's immediate retaliation (125% taxes on American products) revive the spectre of a full-blown trade war.
Against this backdrop, yachting professionals are faced with structurally volatile trading conditions. All the more so as some spare parts and electronic components come directly from Asian countries affected by these new measures.
Keep a close eye on
The suspension decided by the European Union is valid only until July 14, 2025. Until then, the fate of tariffs on American boats will depend on diplomatic progress. In the meantime, European importers and distributors of American brands must remain vigilant and anticipate any reversals in trade policy.
