The Specialty Equipment Market Association has addressed President Donald Trump in a letter highlighting the significant impact of tariffs on the automotive aftermarket industry, which contributes approximately $337 billion to the U.S. economy. The organization has also proposed several solutions to support domestic manufacturers during this transition period.
In the letter, SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola emphasized the need for American automotive parts manufacturers to be granted a transition period to relocate their manufacturing operations back to the United States.
"Our primary request is that American automotive parts manufacturers, including our members, be provided a transition period to re-shore their manufacturing, as well as some form of economic relief to assist in that transition," Spagnola wrote.
The organization suggested economic relief measures including tariff exemptions for molds, tooling, and machinery being brought back to the U.S., along with tax incentives to offset associated costs. The letter also detailed impacts that may not be apparent to the Trump Administration, including challenges faced by companies seeking to return their operations to American soil and issues with domestic steel and aluminum producers that are affecting the competitiveness of Made in America companies.
SEMA represents the $51.5 billion specialty automotive aftermarket industry that includes manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and installers of specialty vehicle parts and accessories.
