Donald Trump’s inauguration in the White House has divided the international marine industry: in the U.S., new tariffs threaten to block boat exports to key markets, while in Europe-and particularly in Italy-some signs point to renewed optimism. At Düsseldorf Boot 2025, for example, the president of Timone Yachts Group observed an increase in contacts, suggesting that the Trump effect is awakening the yacht market.
In the U.S., the NMMA expressed concern about tariffs on imported goods from Canada and Mexico, key elements of U.S. manufacturing, highlighting the risk of a tariff reaction from these countries that could undermine the recovery of the sector and the stability of the USMCA. With Canada responsible for 51 percent of U.S. boat exports, the new measures could harm thousands of small family businesses, jeopardizing an industry that employs more than 800,000 people and supports 36,000 businesses.
While the climate in the United States remains uncertain due to possible retaliation, in Europe tariffs could even create opportunities for local producers, strengthening competitiveness and fostering innovation. As a result, the marine industry is faced with balancing the needs to protect workers and domestic markets with the challenges imposed by increasing international trade tension.
Sources: FinanciaLounge, Marine Industry News.
