June 19, 2019—Auto Care Association President and CEO Bill Hanvey testified before the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in Washington, D.C. on the latest proposed fourth Section 301 tariff list on imports from China.
Hanvey voiced support for the Trump administration’s efforts to address China’s “unfair” trade policies but warned of the negative impact tariffs are having on the industry’s supply chain.
Hanvey testified how members are experiencing many challenges as a result of the tariffs, including heavy financial strain from absorbing tariff-related costs, a decrease in demand for products, margin pressure, and negative cash flow.
The tariffs are part of USTR’s Section 301 investigation to address unfair acts, policies, and practices by China that are related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation. Three tariff lists on imports from China have already been finalized and duties have gone into effect.
