MEMA Responds to Trump Administration Action to Investigate New Tariffs on Imported Motor Vehicles and Motor Vehicle Parts

MEMA supports the Trump administration’s agenda to assure free, fair, and reciprocal trade; and, MEMA concurs that national security depends on the economic security of the country. Motor vehicle parts manufacturers are a critical element of this agenda. Motor vehicle parts manufacturers directly employ more than 871,000 Americans - up 19 percent in the last five years. This growth in jobs has been possible because motor vehicle parts suppliers operate in an integrated, complex global supply chain. Access to worldwide markets is critical for the motor vehicle parts industry to remain competitive. Imposing 232 tariffs on motor vehicle parts and motor vehicles will put American jobs - and national security - at risk.

MEMA is a leading voice in Washington and around the country advocating that open and fair trade is essential to the success of motor vehicle parts suppliers, the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the United States. MEMA is disappointed that the Trump administration is investigating the imposition of 232 tariffs on motor vehicle parts and motor vehicles, as these tariffs would adversely impact the success and growth of American manufacturing businesses. In addition, consumers need competitively priced aftermarket parts to repair and maintain their vehicles. Tariffs on imported parts will lead to increased repair costs, forcing U.S. consumers to potentially forgo necessary repairs and routine maintenance. Foregoing maintenance undermines the fundamental operating safety and efficiency of consumers’ vehicles.

MEMA urges the administration to reconsider this action and pursue alternative ways to forge more positive trade relationships with our trade partners while allowing American businesses to operate freely in the global marketplace.