The fallout continues since President Trump made steel from the European Union, Canada and Mexico subject to 25% tariffs and aluminum to 10% at the start of June, ending exemptions that had been in place since March. Retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods have followed, echoing reciprocal actions by China, India and other countries, and the tit-for-tat continues with the U.S. imposing steep tariffs on other goods from China.

Two sets of tariffs are contained in the announcement of U.S. Trade Representative Section 301 China Tariffs. Some are set to begin July 6 on shop tools, component parts and finished goods from China–-all items manufacturers use to make foodservice equipment and supplies. It also cites a second set of proposed tariffs that are subject to a public comment and hearing process.

NAFEM is among the organizations speaking out against the tariffs. It released a statement on Section 301 of the tariff announcement from NAFEM President Joe Carlson, CFSP, who also serves as President of Lakeside Mfg.:

“Foodservice equipment produced by NAFEM members is used by hotels, restaurants, hospitals and nursing homes across the U.S. to feed millions of people every day. Unfortunately, the 25% tariffs announced by the United States Trade Representative will make it more expensive to produce this important equipment, which could negatively impact U.S. jobs. The Chinese import tariffs are directly contrary to the Administration’s stated priority of increasing good-paying U.S. manufacturing jobs. Smart, economically competitive sourcing from global suppliers, including those in China, allows NAFEM members to control costs, which protects and even expands U.S. jobs.”

NAFEM, comprised of more than 550 foodservice equipment and supplies manufacturers, asserts it will continue to advocate for a solution to China’s unfair trade practices that doesn’t include tariffs that ultimately hurt American workers and consumers.

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