The Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association (CRVA) said it highly welcomed the announcement yesterday that the Canadian and U.S. governments have agreed to postpone the implementation of tariffs for 30 days following productive discussions between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Donald Trump.
“The CRVA would like to express its appreciation to both administrations for the decision to engage in meaningful dialogue that works towards a resolution that avoids any unnecessary economic disruption. We strongly support these continued discussions to ensure that fair trade policies can remain in place to benefit businesses and consumers on both sides of the border,” said CRVA President Shane Devenish in a release.
“The RV industry in Canada and the United States has thrived under decades of mutually beneficial free trade policies. The North American RV Industry’s ability to provide our families with outdoor enjoyment is critically dependent on fair and stable trade policies to maintain production, sales and investment.
Trade barriers, if implemented, would significantly impact consumers, limit product availability and reduce industry competitiveness.
We are optimistic that governments will use this extension period productively to explore equitable solutions that address the concerns of the US and Canada, which do not place undue burden and stress on our businesses and consumers.
The CRVA remains committed to working with our industry partners, policymakers, and stakeholders to ensure that the interests of RV manufacturers, dealers, and owners are represented in any future trade negotiations.
If you have any questions, or would like any additional comments please contact our office.”
Statement from RVDA of Canada, 2/3:
Eleanor Hamm, president of the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) of Canada, sent the following letter:
As you are surely aware, the U.S. and Canadian governments have announced plans to impose tariffs on imports from each other, which will have a major impact on our industry.
While we are still assessing the full details, we want to provide you with an initial overview of how these changes may affect the RV sector.
Key Points:
- Effective Feb. 4, The US will impose a 25% surtax on all products imported from Canada, including both finished goods and raw materials. This tax will be collected from the importing company.
- Canada’s Response: Also effective Feb. 4, select US-origin products entering Canada will be subject to a 25% surtax, applied to the importing company.
- Further Canadian Tariffs: Canada plans to expand the list of affected US imports later in February, maintaining the 25% rate.
- No Business Ownership Exemptions: The tariffs apply regardless of whether the importing company is US- or Canadian-owned.
- Parent-Company Transfers Impacted: Internal transfers between a US company and its Canadian subsidiary (or vice versa) will still be subject to tariffs.
Affected Products:
A full list of products affected by Canada’s Feb. 4 tariffs can be found here:
Government of Canada: List of Products Subject to 25% Tariffs
Items relevant to RVDA members include:
- Refrigerator-freezer units (absorption-type, gas/electric-powered, designed for RV installation)
- Microwave ovens
For the second stage of Canadian tariffs, a public comment period will precede implementation. This phase is expected to impact a broader range of products, including passenger vehicles and trucks, including electric vehicles, steel and aluminum products, certain fruits and vegetables, aerospace products, beef, pork, dairy, trucks and buses, recreational vehicles, and recreational boats.
Next Steps:
- The RVDA of Canada will provide further updates in the coming days, potentially including a member webinar.
- We are actively engaging with government officials and industry stakeholders on both sides of the border to advocate for de-escalation and exemptions.
- We are urging the Government of Canada to exclude RVs from the second stage of tariff due to the severe economic harm this would impose on Canadian businesses and consumers.
We recognize the potential impact of these changes and will keep you informed as more details emerge. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
