Trump hopes trade tariffs will hit UK bikes, parts and tools

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump has proposed trade tariffs worth $11 billion per year on the EU. The penalties are in retaliation to EU subsidies placed on US aviation giant Airbus, which it’s claimed had an adverse financial effect on the United States.

The list, made public on 12th April, lists everything from cheese to prepared fish and squid as being in the president’s crosshairs. But most importantly for the UK motorcycle industry, it lists motorcycles and mopeds with internal combustion engines of between 500 and 700cc. It goes on to list that parts and accessories for all motorcycles and mopeds are included on the POTUS’ hitlist.

An extract from the Preliminary list reads:

8711.40.30 ............... Motorcycles (incl. mopeds) and cycles, fitted w/recip. internal-combustion piston engine w/capacity o/500 cc but n/o 700

8714.10.00 ............... Pts. & access. for motorcycles (including mopeds).

Before the 100% tariff can be applied, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) is evaluating the claims prior to approving or denying them.

The MCIA have stated: “Please be aware that we are working closely with the UK Government and had already scheduled a meeting with the Minister for early May.  We will keep you updated accordingly.”

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said: “This case has been in litigation for 14 years, and the time has come for action. The Administration is preparing to respond immediately when the WTO issues its finding on the value of U.S. countermeasures. 

“Our ultimate goal is to reach an agreement with the EU to end all WTO-inconsistent subsidies to large civil aircraft.  When the EU ends these harmful subsidies, the additional U.S. duties imposed in response can be lifted.”