Letter From SEMA to President Trump Highlights the Impacts of Tariffs

In a letter to President Donald Trump, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) highlighted the impact of tariffs on the nation’s automotive aftermarket industry, along with ways the administration can support domestic manufacturers during this transition period. According to SEMA officials in the letter, the automotive aftermarket industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy.

“Our primary request is that American automotive parts manufacturers, including our members, be provided a transition period to reshore their manufacturing, as well as some form of economic relief to assist in that transition,” writes Mike Spagnola, SEMA president and CEO. “That relief could include tariff exemptions for things like molds, tooling, and machinery brought back to the U.S., as well as tax incentives to offset the associated costs.” 

SEMA says the letter also sheds light on impacts that the Trump Administration might not be aware of, including those experienced companies that want to bring their operations back to the U.S., as well as ways domestic producers of steel and aluminum are making it hard for Made in America companies to stay competitive. 

Read the full letter from SEMA to President Trump here.