President Donald Trump’s trade agenda is getting high praise from a major manufacturing group that says his return has given them “significant hope”—but they’re also asking for some breathing room.
In a letter sent Monday to the White House, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), which represents over 7,500 automotive businesses, backed Trump’s push to revive American industry, repeal Biden-era electric vehicle mandates, and push forward with tariffs aimed at reshoring supply chains.
SEMA President Mike Spagnola credited the Trump administration’s early actions with restoring industry confidence. “Your return to the White House has given significant hope to our industry,” he wrote. “We commend your commitment to restoring the greatness of American manufacturing.”
SEMA’s members make up the massive aftermarket for car parts and performance upgrades—an industry contributing $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supporting more than 1.3 million jobs.
The group was especially supportive of Trump’s decision to revoke what it called Joe Biden’s “de facto EV mandate,” which would have essentially forced a transition to electric vehicles nationwide. Trump instead scrapped that rule and reaffirmed that only the federal government—not California—sets national vehicle policies.
“On day one of his new administration, President Trump reclaimed the nation’s freedom of vehicle choice,” Spagnola wrote.
While SEMA applauded the administration’s broader vision, it also urged Trump officials to recognize the challenge that tariffs present for smaller domestic manufacturers. Many rely on foreign components simply because there are no U.S. companies producing them in low enough volumes to meet their needs.
“For many specialty automotive businesses… they have no choice but to source components from abroad,” the letter stated. “It’s not a matter of preference—it’s a matter of necessity.”
Rather than pushing back on Trump’s tariffs, SEMA is asking for time—and a path forward. The group proposed a limited transition period for reshoring key manufacturing operations and suggested two specific areas of economic relief:
- Temporary tariff exemptions for critical imports like molds, tooling, and machinery that companies need to bring production back home.
- Targeted tax incentives to help businesses absorb the cost of relocation, retooling, and reshoring investments.
That, they say, would give U.S. manufacturers the “bridge” they need to get through the disruption caused by the global realignment of trade and production.
The group made clear they’re committed to Trump’s reshoring agenda—they just want a chance to make it work without losing their businesses in the process.
“We believe in your vision,” the letter concluded. “We just need a bridge to assist with the transition.”
Trump has repeatedly stated that his goal is to bring manufacturing back to American soil, particularly in critical industries like autos, semiconductors, and energy. In April, he slapped a 10% tariff on all foreign imports—with additional levies on key sectors. Tariffs on China soared to 145%, and further hikes are being floated if trade talks stall.
Some Wall Street analysts and corporate media outlets have warned of possible inflationary effects, but Trump and his economic team say the long-term gain—independence from China, stronger supply chains, and more American jobs—far outweighs short-term disruption.
With SEMA’s support now publicly behind Trump’s tariff push, the message from Main Street manufacturers is clear: they’re on board—but they’re hoping the White House can help smooth the landing.
