A survey by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers finds steel and aluminum tariffs are harming the industry. The survey, primarily focused on the current new equipment inventory levels, shows both dealers and manufacturers are aware of the potential effect of steel and aluminum tariffs on the industry.
The survey found that overall, new inventory numbers are favorable, when traditionally dealers and manufacturers tend to disagree. However, as a sidebar in the survey, an AEM spokesperson says “tariffs have already begun to impact” some dealers. AEM notes that dealers have been forced to place advanced orders to avoid tariffs, and others have been told by customers that they will “delay or cancel purchase decisions due to higher prices.”
The equipment manufacturing industry in the United States supports 1.3 million jobs and contributes roughly $159 billion to the economy every year.
Source: National Association of Farm Broadcasting News Service.