Four HVAC Groups Ask Feds to Exempt USMCA Gear from Tariffs
HARDI, AHRI, ACCA, and PHCC sent a joint letter on September 2 to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. They requested broad exemptions for HVACR equipment, parts, and components from Section 232 tariffs. The coalition asked that products originating under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement be exempt from duties on steel, aluminum, copper, and covered derivative products. The groups noted that 1.9 million American workers across the industry depend on USMCA trade relationships.
The tariffs currently drive up costs for equipment and replacement parts. Contractors buy these from distributors. If the exemption is granted, you could see lower prices on units and components manufactured in Mexico and Canada. Many common residential and light commercial systems include materials from USMCA partners.
Check with your primary distributor about current pricing on equipment you order regularly. Ask whether they expect price changes based on tariff policy. This helps you quote jobs more accurately and avoid surprises on material costs.
Key Takeaways:
- Four major HVAC trade groups jointly requested USMCA equipment exemption from tariffs
- Section 232 duties apply to steel, aluminum, copper, and derivative products
- 1.9 million American workers rely on USMCA trade relationships industrywide
- Exemption could reduce equipment and parts costs for contractors
