The American Coatings Association (ACA) issued a statement addressing new tariffs imposed on Canada, Mexico and China, warning of disruptions and increased costs for essential consumer products. The organization emphasized that these tariffs will negatively impact domestic manufacturing and raise prices on items used daily, including medical devices, food production equipment, automobiles and aerospace applications.

Canada and Mexico are the U.S. coatings industry’s largest trading partners, valued at $1.26 billion and $815 million, respectively, with China ranking third at $117 million. The industry maintains a trade surplus of $1.7 billion, underscoring its profitability in international markets.

The ACA highlighted the industry’s strong support for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), citing its role in stabilizing North American trade. Automotive coatings, including specialized lightweighting systems, rely on an integrated supply chain that moves across borders. Additionally, many raw materials essential to coatings formulations originate in China, leaving limited alternatives for sourcing.

The ACA reaffirmed its willingness to assist the administration in addressing trade challenges, advocating for fair agreements that provide certainty and predictability in commercial operations. The coatings industry contributes over $32 billion to the U.S. economy and employs more than 313,000 people nationwide.