The following is a message from the RVDA of Canada to its members:
At the RVDA of Canada, we remain committed to advocating for policies that protect and support our industry. As you may be aware, there is a potential threat of tariffs on RV imports that could significantly impact our businesses and consumers. In response, we have developed a Member Tariff Advocacy Kit to help you engage with policymakers and stakeholders on this critical issue.
This comprehensive document is designed to help you become an effective advocate for addressing the pending retaliatory tariff situation in Canada through grassroots advocacy. We hope it provides you with the knowledge, tools and inspiration you need to become a powerful advocate for our RV industry. Remember, every voice matters, and together, we can make a difference.
This kit is designed to provide you with the tools needed to effectively communicate the impact of tariffs on your dealership and the broader RV industry.
Included in the Member Tariff Advocacy Kit:
- RV Industry Webinar on Tariff Implication – In case you missed it, watch the webinar held on Feb. 6.
- Key Messages & Talking Points – Concise, impactful messaging to use when speaking with government officials, media, and customers.
- Briefing Letter Sent by RVDA – An overview of the potential tariff issue, its implications for our industry, as presented to government.
- Template Letters – Two Pre-drafted letters that you can personalize and send to your local Member of Parliament, and government policymakers.
- Draft Template for Remission Request – The government will launch a remission process. Remission is the cancellation of Crown debt and can be granted under various statutory authorities. Please start gathering information now so that you are ready when the remission process begins.
- Economic Impact Report – Data and insights on how tariffs could affect RV affordability, jobs, and the overall economy.
- Guidance on Meeting With Elected Officials – Best practices for scheduling and conducting effective meetings with MPs and decision-makers
Key Messages: Opposition to Proposed 25% Tariff on U.S.-Manufactured RVs
The tariff would devastate Canadian RV dealerships:
- 95% of RVs sold in Canada are manufactured in the U.S., leaving no viable domestic alternatives.
- The tariff would not harm U.S. manufacturers; instead, they would shift supply to U.S. dealers.
- Canadian dealerships would suffer from reduced inventory, increased costs, and financial hardship.
Significant economic impact on jobs & communities:
- The RV industry supports 141,400 jobs and contributes $16.2 billion in added economic value.
- The industry generates billions in tourism spending and government revenue.
- Higher costs due to the tariff would lead to job losses and economic strain in local communities.
Increased costs for consumers & reduced affordability:
- A 25% tariff would make RV ownership unaffordable for many middle-class families and retirees.
- Consumers would face significantly higher prices or be forced into an inflated used RV market.
- The tariff discourages RVing, harming the broader tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.
Cash flow & financial burden on dealerships:
- Dealers must pay the tariff upfront at the border, creating severe cash flow challenges.
- With an already weakened Canadian dollar, this additional cost could put many dealerships at risk of closure.
- Reduced demand and rising costs would disrupt business sustainability and long-term growth.
The RV industry has no immediate alternative to U.S. supply:
- Unlike other industries, there is no substitute for U.S.-manufactured RVs.
- If the tariff is implemented, Canadian dealers will struggle with limited inventory and reduced consumer options.
- The lack of supply would push consumers toward other markets, harming Canadian businesses.
Request to exempt RVs from tariffs:
- The government should exempt RVs from the list of targeted products.
- Alternative trade strategies should be explored that do not unfairly impact a single industry.
- Engaging with industry stakeholders to find balanced solutions is critical.
Willingness to discuss further:
- Canadian RV dealers are eager to share real-world insights into the impact of this tariff.
- Open dialogue with policymakers can help develop fair trade policies that protect Canadian businesses and consumers.
- Dealers welcome the opportunity to discuss potential solutions and alternatives.
For further discussion, please contact the RVDA of Canada.
