COMMENT: But, soft! What light through yonder window breaks?........................................................................................ Page 4
OPTIMATE: Overcoming parasitic drain on a motorcycle...................................................................................................... Page 10 OXFORD PRODUCTS: Strength and honour for five-star luggage.................................................................................. Page 12 SPAIN: Motocycle registrations + 9.95 % at 141,249 units January- July................................................................................ Page 6
ACEM: Concern over EU-US tariffs trade agreement
ACEM has expressed its " serious concern " that the EU-US Framework Agreement " falls significantly short of addressing the trade challenges facing European manufacturers." It Is calling for " urgent action as prohibitive US tariffs on European motorcycles are introduced." While ACEM said it acknowledged the diplomatic efforts that have been made " on both sides of the Atlantic ", an August 27 news release stated that " the agreement ' s partial scope leaves the European motorcycle industry facing the new general 15 % tariff on products exported to the United States." Of even greater concern are the tariffs being faced by European motorcycles, parts, and accessory manufacturers and distributors as these are now also subject to 50 % tariffs on their steel content. " This unbalanced framework creates an economically unsustainable situation for European manufacturers, as steel represents a fundamental component. " The persistence of punitive tariffs threatens the competitiveness of
ACEM ' s member companies and jeopardises jobs they support throughout Europe and in the US. The current arrangement effectively introduces discriminatory treatment. " While the Agreement indicates future discussions on Tariff-Rate Quotas( TRQ) for steel, aluminium, and
Secretary General Antonio Perlot
derivative products, ACEM stresses that these discussions must move beyond vague commitments. " The industry cannot sustain prolonged uncertainty while fundamental competitive disadvantages persist. European manufacturers require immediate clarity on when comprehensive relief will be achieved. Looking forward, ACEM will continue its regular engagement with European institutions to provide technical expertise and industry perspective for ongoing negotiations." ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot is quoted as saying: " While we acknowledge the Commission ' s efforts, this Framework Agreement, as it stands, represents a deeply inadequate response to the challenges facing European industry. " On top of the 15 % tariff for general products, the newly introduced 50 % tariffs on steel content render much of the agreement ' s benefits meaningless for motorcycle manufacturers. We cannot accept a situation where European companies remain at a severe competitive disadvantage due to incomplete negotiations. " The European motorcycle industry calls for a balanced negotiated solution for transatlantic trade, that restores fair competition and mutual market access."
SEPT / OCT‘ 25 ISSUE # 186
THE BRADLEY REPORT
STARK
RST & D3O
News rooM 8-26, 48 Proguide 28-45
STATZONE: 6-7