NMMA PRESIDENT THOM DAMMRICH REAPPOINTED TO INDUSTRY TRADE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER GOODS
National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) president, Thom Dammrich, has been reappointed to the Industry Trade Advisory Committee (ITAC) on Consumer Goods for a four-year term. The ITAC on Consumer Goods is one of 16 Industry Trade Advisory Committees, which are jointly administered by the Department of Commerce and the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
Dammrich was appointed to represent the viewpoints of NMMA members and the U.S. recreational boating industry. Through this committee he will provide policy and technical advice, information, and recommendations to the Secretary of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative regarding trade barriers, negotiating and bargaining objectives of trade agreements, and implementation of existing trade agreements affecting its sectors. In addition, he will perform advisory functions relevant to U.S. trade policy as may be requested by the Secretary and the USTR or their designees.
The Committee meets six times a year in Washington, DC. The members, all of whom come from the private sector, serve in a representative capacity presenting the views and interests of a U.S. entity in their respective industry sectors.
“It’s an honour to represent NMMA on this advisory body and bring a voice to the growing international trade developments and needs happening across the global recreational boating industry,” said Dammrich. “The recreational boating industry is uniquely American with 93% of the boats sold in America, made in America. What’s more, the recreational boating industry is a net exporter— and for good reason – American-made boats, engines, and marine accessories are quality products made by experienced manufacturers that evoke the spirit of America and our love affair with being on the water.”
Recreational boat and marine engine exports increased 2.9% in 2012 to $2.2 billion, creating a $275 million trade surplus. Given the growth of exports within the recreational marine industry, NMMA’s Export Development program addresses the needs of its members by helping them explore opportunities in international markets. Through a partnership with the Department of Commerce’s U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service (US&FCS), NMMA offers a formalized program that brings its members improved access to international trade resources offered by the U.S. Federal Government.
