Yachting and Boating - The announcement by the American government of the introduction of ‘reciprocal’ customs tariffs of 20% on products from the European Union has provoked a strong reaction from the European Boating Industry (EBI), the organisation representing the European nautical industry. According to the EBI, this measure risks seriously disrupting companies on both continents and impacting the entire value chain of the sector.

The EBI, which represents more than 32,000 companies and directly employs more than 280,000 people in Europe, has expressed its firm opposition to these new tariffs. The organisation emphasises that the boating industry, which is highly integrated at the global level, depends on fluid trade between Europe and North America, two of the largest markets for this sector. The introduction of these tariffs, according to the EBI, could slow economic growth, harm investment and endanger many jobs, particularly those in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which represent more than 96% of companies in the sector.

In this context, the EBI welcomes the European Union's willingness to find a negotiated solution with the United States. The organisation says it is ready to contribute to the dialogue with proposals aimed at promoting the mutual success of the two markets. It advocates a permanent removal of tariffs, a measure which, according to the EBI, would be beneficial for the economy, employment and investment on both sides of the Atlantic.

The European recreational boating sector, which stands out for its ‘Made in Europe’ production, is thus keeping a close eye on the progress of the discussions and the impact that these new customs measures could have on international trade relations.