Motorcycle industry gives full throttle against import duties

ACEM, the motorcycle industry’s advocacy organization, has taken up the pen against import tariffs on motorcycles. The motorcycle manufacturers’ club believes it is unjust that their sector is being drawn into a transatlantic trade war.

What import taxes are involved?

ACEM is troubled by the European Commission’s reaction to the US decision to impose 25% tariffs on EU exports of steel and aluminum. From April 1, Europe wants a 50% duty on motorcycles of US origin with a cylinder capacity over 500cc. And as of April 13, that also threatens motorcycles under 500cc.

Urgent call, but why?

Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of ACEM: “While we recognize the need for a balanced response to trade disputes, motorcycles should not become collateral damage in broader trade disputes. The motorcycle industry provides high-quality manufacturing and related jobs, mobility and access to work for millions of people and is a fundamental economic driver. Since no one wins in trade wars, we make an urgent call for reasonableness and urge both sides to reach a fair solution.”

Motor industry ‘intertwined’

ACEM: “The motorcycle industry in Europe and the US is deeply intertwined, with strong industrial and economic ties. European manufacturers export large numbers of motorcycles to the US, while US manufacturers have a strong presence in the European market. Imposing tariffs on motorcycles risks disrupting businesses, hurting consumers and putting jobs on both sides of the Atlantic at risk.”

So the motor industry makes an urgent appeal

“Instead of escalating this trade dispute with retaliatory measures, the European motorcycle industry advocates a negotiated solution to transatlantic trade. The motorcycle industries in the U.S. and EU want fair transatlantic trade and the ability to continue supplying their high-quality products to passionate customers in both Europe and the United States.”