Statement from Marie-France MacKinnon, Executive Director of NMMA Canada, on the US Government’s Implementation of Tariffs on Canada

| General Government Relations

Ottawa, ON (February 7, 2025) – As the leading trade association for Canada’s recreational boating industry, NMMA Canada supports the 30-day delay of tariffs by the U.S. on Canadian imports.

At NMMA Canada, we are working closely with our partners at the Canadian Marine Retailers Association (CMRA) and policymakers on both sides of the border to advocate for a pro-manufacturing, pro-business, pro-boating, and pro-outdoors agenda. Together, we are committed to preserving North America’s leadership in the global recreational marine industry while safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of families who rely on this vibrant sector.

The North American supply chain is strong, and the Canada - United States - Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) offers an important framework for economic cooperation that fuels growth for marine businesses across borders. These tariffs threaten that partnership, driving up costs for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers on both sides of the border. Canada is a top consumer of U.S.-made recreational boats and engines – nearly $1.1 billion in annual imports – indicating the vital importance of boating and recreation for both economies.
With the CUSMA up for review in 2026, NMMA Canada believes we are approaching the right moment to address outstanding issues among our trading partners. Our ties to each other should remain stable and collaborative so that innovation can continue in Canada’s recreational boating industry which generates $13.9 billion in annual economic impact. The historic CUSMA trade agreement continues to provide certainty for manufacturers and a predictable consumer market for our people who love boating as a lifestyle and a way to access fishing, watersports, nature, and other forms of outdoor recreation.
Recreational boating in Canada drives 80,500 jobs and supports families and communities across our country. As the leading promoter of Canadian boating, NMMA Canada will continue to nurture and grow a strong boating culture and recreational marine economy.