From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The tariffs issue remains a fluid, rapidly evolving issue. Below is the latest straight from D.C., but first:

SEMA is seeking updated feedback on how tariffs affect businesses in the industry. If you are an executive, owner, or authorized business representative, please take part in our survey to provide your insights, which will significantly aid our ability to advocate on your behalf. 

U.S. Tariff Policy Escalates as Trump Targets Canada, EU, and Mexico 

After a week marked by rapid escalations in United States trade policy, President Donald Trump threatened sweeping new tariffs on imports from Canada, the European Union (EU) and Mexico, sparking newfound concern among manufacturers, trade partners and United States allies. The threats, if implemented, would represent a significant shift in the current tariff landscape. At its core, the threatened tariffs have serious implications for the future of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and broader global supply chains. 

Canada Tariff Threat 

The most immediate development came late on July 10, when Trump announced in a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that the U.S. would impose a 35% tariff on Canadian goods, starting August 1. Trump's letter cites fentanyl trafficking as the reason for the policy shift, and makes clear that the tariffs could be "modified, upward or downward, depending on our relationship with your Country." This suggests that Trump intends to maintain his preferred tactic of using tariff threats as diplomatic leverage. 

• According to the Trump administration, the new 35% rate will apply only to goods that do not meet USMCA rules of origin for duty-free trade. USMCA-compliant products--including many vehicles and parts--are currently exempt from both the 25% and 35% tariffs. As of now, Canadian and Mexican parts that do not meet USMCA standards face a 25% tariff, but that rate would jump to 35% under the proposed policy. 

According to media reports, Trump administration officials are still finalizing the list of affected goods and that "no final decisions have been made," though USMCA-exemptions are expected to remain in place. 

• Notably, auto parts that fall outside of the USMCA's requirements but are not on the United States' list of targeted auto components would also be subject to the higher tariff. 

This latest move follows a series of escalating trade duties with Canada. Canada had previously threatened to impose retaliatory tariffs on July 21 if the U.S. did not reverse its decision to raise steel and aluminum tariffs to 50%. Canada has since walked back that threat, as it reassesses its position amid the broader fallout from the tariffs. 

Impact on Europe and Mexico 

In two separate July 13 letters, Trump threatened 30% tariffs on the European Union and Mexico, both with an August 1 start date. These new rates would increase existing tariffs on both trading partners--up from 20% on EU goods and 25% on Mexican products. 

• Together, the EU and Mexico account for roughly one-third of all U.S. imports, with the U.S. importing $605 billion from the 27 EU member nations and $505 billion from Mexico in 2024. The new tariffs represent a dramatic uptick in pressure on two of America's most significant trade relationships. 

As with Canada, the rationale behind these tariffs remains partly tied to fentanyl trafficking concerns, particularly with respect to Mexico. 

Other Nations 

Trump, in a July 10 interview with NBC News, said that countries not receiving a direct tariff letter would also face increased tariffs--potentially up to 20%, double the current 10% rate. This marks a broader and more aggressive application of tariffs as a default tool of U.S. trade policy. 

• Though prior administrations had typically wielded tariffs as a narrow remedy for trade imbalances or unfair practices, the Trump strategy appears to frame them as baseline expectations for all foreign exporters unless special exemptions are negotiated. 

Implications and Outlook 

The specialty aftermarket is watching closely, as many manufacturers rely on integrated North American production networks that span across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. 

• Industry analysts caution that fluctuations in tariffs could destabilize supply chains and increase consumer prices. 

While USMCA-compliant products are currently shielded from the steepest penalties, the burden of compliance--particularly in complex industries like auto manufacturing --remains high. Any changes in what qualifies as "compliant" could expose additional imports to higher duties and affect pricing and availability. 

Furthermore, the lack of clarity about final implementation and the use of tariffs as a negotiating tool tied to non-trade issues (such as drug enforcement) introduce additional uncertainty. Trade partners are now forced to choose between making concessions on non-economic matters or facing financial penalties on billions in exports. 

The August 1 deadline now looms large. Whether these threats materialize into permanent policy or remain leverage in future negotiations will determine the longer-term impact on both U.S. industry and global trade dynamics. 

SEMA Collecting Data 

SEMA continues to gather feedback from aftermarket industry businesses on how tariffs impact your ability to ship goods and products and import the materials and components you need. Executives, owners and business representatives: Take part in our survey to provide your insights, which will greatly aid our ability to advocate on your behalf. 

Questions? Please reach out to Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs at jmejia@sema.org. 

This story was originally published on Tuesday, July 15.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Fest 2025 artist announcement is officially here! Taking this year's stage are Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes and Neon Trees. Friday, November 7, will be a can't-miss night of music, motorsports and car culture live from the SEMA Show campus in Las Vegas.

A limited number of pre-sale tickets will go on sale tomorrow, Wednesday, July 16, at 8:00 a.m. PT on semafest.com.

🎟 Grab your tickets, explore bundle options and sign up for updates at semafest.com.

📩 Have questions? Email info@semafest.com

🤝 For sponsorship or partnership inquiries, contact partnership@semafest.com.

This story was originally published on Tuesday, July 15.

By Michael Imlay

The SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala is a long-standing tradition that honors and celebrates individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry. This year's Gala is set for Friday, July 25, at the Sheraton Universal in Los Angeles (next to Universal Studios Hollywood). The festivities will include the recognition of the 2025 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees: Luanne Brown, George Lathouris, John McLeod, and Larry Pacey, as well as the incoming and outgoing SEMA Board members. Register for the 2025 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala here or visit sema.org/gala to learn more.

In anticipation of the event, SEMA News caught up with current SEMA Chairman of the Board Kyle Fickler and Chair-Elect Melanie White for their reflections on SEMA's ongoing challenges and accomplishments, this year's Gala and Hall of Famers, and the upcoming "passing of the chair torch" from Fickler to White. What follows has been edited for clarity and conciseness. 

SEMA News: Kyle, as you move into the role of immediate past chairman, what are your personal reflections about your Board experience?

Kyle Fickler: To be honest, I'm 12 years in on my Board experience—two three-year terms as a Board member, then treasurer for two years, and now four years in the chair suite, if you will--two years as chair-elect and two years as chair. Sometimes when I do that math it really surprises me because it just doesn't seem that long.  I'd gladly serve another year.  But with our recent accomplishments, maybe the timing is right. I mean, it's always nice to go out on a high note.

SN: Speaking of accomplishments… Kyle, Melanie, this question is for you both. SEMA has faced some real challenges since the pandemic, but has also racked up some incredible wins. What are your thoughts about its work on the industry's behalf?

KF: We're in a good place right now after some tangible victories. I think particularly about the revocation of the California EV mandate. You don't always get victories like that. We're in such a fortunate spot right now with our Government Affairs office in D.C.—that entire team is doing great things.

We've also had some other fortunate things like the Chevron Decision come our way—things not under our control but that happen for a reason. We've also built enough momentum in the last 12 to 18 months to understand that SEMA really can be powerful… And we have some stories to tell in how we're grappling with future technology and some of the automotive transformations in general.

I always couch it in terms of wanting my daughter, Danica [a racer and automotive enthusiast], to have the same things we've enjoyed through our adulthood.

Melanie White: Like Kyle, I recognize that our industry faces challenges, and I also see incredible opportunities for growth, innovation and advocacy. That's why in my upcoming term, I'll focus on what I call "GYT"—a three-pillar approach that will drive meaningful change through government advocacy, youth engagement and vehicle technology.

At SEMA, we recognize that success comes from forward thinking, from pushing boundaries, adapting to challenges and driving change with the consumer always at the heart of our decisions. SEMA members are a priority, and we'll make it our mission to equip them with the tools, knowledge and support they need to thrive.

SN: So much of SEMA's leadership on industry issues flows from its volunteers, whether on councils, task forces or the Board. What advice do you have for others in the industry who may be considering volunteering and making a difference for their own and other member businesses?

MW: One of SEMA's greatest strengths lies in the passion and dedication of its volunteers. Whether serving on councils, task forces, or the Board, these individuals shape our industry's future by stepping up, lending their voice, and sharing their expertise.

My advice to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact is simple: get involved. Your unique insights and experiences are incredibly valuable not just to your business, but to the broader SEMA community. Collaboration is key. When we come together, listen, and lead with intention, we elevate the entire industry. [Editor's note: Learn more about SEMA Council & Networking opportunities here.]

KF: One thing I'm aware of is the need to thank industry employers for allowing their employees to volunteer, because there is a cost aspect to their time and service. But as Melanie says, for SEMA members, there is also a tremendous value and ROI in the networking. At some point down the road, you'll see that value when you least expect it.

For example, I've always been on the industry's performance side, but things can happen in other segments before they happen in yours. So through your network and volunteer experience, you're able to witness how another industry segment is handling an emerging issue. That's a real benefit.

SN: The Hall of Fame inductions are a time-honored Gala tradition. Any words you'd like to share about this year's Hall of Fame class? And why is the Gala such an important event for SEMA and the industry?

MW: The Gala is a gathering of visionaries, pioneers and changemakers who remind us why we do what we do. For SEMA, it's a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate our shared journey.

For me, the Hall of Fame inductees embody the spirit, resilience and passion that define our industry. Each one has not only made a lasting impact through innovation and leadership but has also uplifted those around them, setting a powerful example for future generations. It's a privilege to honor their legacy.

KF: I got to call this year's group of inductees. That, for me, was special in the sense that I've never had that opportunity before. I'm struck by how all four inductees have contributed to our industry in dramatically different ways. What's cool is the SEMA Hall of Fame is not a cookie-cutter deal where you check the right boxes and you're good to go. Each inductee this year is unique in their own right. It's going to be fun seeing them on stage, watching their videos, and hearing the stories they have to tell.
 

SN: Kyle, what are your thoughts on "passing the Chair torch" to Melanie, and what are your hopes for the SEMA Board as it moves forward? And Melanie, what have you appreciated most in working with Kyle on the Board?

KF: Melanie is going to do great. I've been lucky to know her while I was on the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) and she was on the LTAA [now the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)]. We've had these parallel paths and have been good friends for probably 20 years. I've watched her grow into this role, and she's been ready for some time. One issue confronting SEMA is ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), which is a day-to-day reality for her company. So the timing is perfect, and she's going to be fantastic.

MW: Working alongside Kyle has been a privilege. He brings a steady hand, a collaborative spirit, and a deep-rooted passion for the industry. His ability to unite diverse perspectives and guide strategic decisions with integrity has left a lasting impression on me and the entire Board. What I appreciate most is his unwavering commitment to fostering growth, not just within SEMA, but for every business and individual member.  

2025 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala
Date: Friday, July 25
Location: Sheraton Universal, just steps from Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City, California. View on Google Maps.
Attire: Cocktail or semi-formal.
Details: Attendees must be at least 16 years old to participate in the event. 
Registration: Tickets are required to attend. Register here or click below.
Support: Join the Industry Cup Challenge! 

For questions, contact Courtney Wright at CourtneyW@sema.org.   

By SEMA News Editors

DeatschWerks

X3 Series Pump Module for the '20-'25 A90 Supra, '21-'24 BMW M3/M4

DeatschWerks' new X3 Series Pump Module is designed to deliver a significant increase in flow while keeping all three pumps submerged for consistent fueling. According to the manufacturer, this system can provide a 260% increase over OEM Mk5 Supra and a 150% increase in power over OEM G8x M3/4. It's also designed to feature race-proven low-level pick up to 1/8-tank or less.

deatschwerks.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

WIMNA to Relaunch Charlotte Chapter Headed by Alba Colón

Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) has announced an event to relaunch its original Charlotte, North Carolina, chapter with industry powerhouse Alba Colón as the new chapter president. The Charlotte WIMNA chapter joins chapters in Detroit, Indianapolis, Monterey, Southern California and Seattle. 

WIMNA will host an event on Wednesday, July 30, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST at the Hendrick Motorsports headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

For more information, visit womeninmotorsportsna.com. 

NASCAR Cook Out Clash Returns to Historic Bowman Gray Stadium in 2026

NASCAR has announced the Cook Out Clash will return to Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, as the opening exhibition event for the 2026 season. FOX Sports will broadcast next year's race as it returns to the historic venue on Saturday, January 31, and Sunday, February 1.

"The City of Winston-Salem is deeply honored to have been chosen to host the 2026 Cook Out Clash," said City of Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines. "The 2025 race was an immensely successful event for all parties involved. We will work hard to ensure that the 2026 Cook Out Clash is even more successful."

Cook Out, one of the fastest-growing family-owned restaurant chains in the nation, will return as the entitlement partner for the 2026 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

Built in 1937, Bowman Gray Stadium, a quarter-mile short track, holds a special place in NASCAR history as the longest-running weekly race track. In 1949, Bill France Sr. and Alvin Hawkins, two founding fathers of NASCAR, introduced motorsports to the facility as the first weekly race track and the first paved race track on which NASCAR events were held. In 2024, NASCAR took over the long-term management of racing operations at Bowman Gray Stadium in partnership with the City of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. 

This year's Cook Out Clash was the first Cup Series race at the historic track since 1971. Chase Elliott, 2020 Cup Series champion, won this year's Cook Out Clash.

For more information and to get on the list to purchase tickets for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, visit NASCARClash.com.  

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com. Read more racing industry news on performanceracing.com/industry-news.

By Ashley Reyes

Applications for the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle Showcase are open at this link, offering truck and off-road builders a one-of-a-kind opportunity to showcase their skills at a prime location during the 2025 SEMA Show.  

SEMA News recently spoke with Rick Wallen of Custom FN Customs about his experience participating in the Showcase and winning the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show award not just once, but two years in a row. Read on to learn how the Showcase helped elevate his business and why other builders should consider applying.

"Being a part of the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase has been one of the most pivotal moments in the growth and evolution of our company. Over the last five years, we've experienced incredible transformation, and I credit a large part of that momentum to our involvement with TORA and the broader SEMA network.

"Our '72 Chevrolet Blazer, which received top honors as Best 4WD in the country at the 2023 SEMA Show, and our '93 Mitsubishi Delica, which took the spotlight at SEMA 2024, both served as catalysts that opened doors we never imagined. Today, we're proud to say that Custom FN Customs has grown into far more than a custom build shop--we now work directly with top manufacturers to develop brand-specific, commercialized content that's both creative and effective.

"In the last year alone, we've collaborated with large distributors and OEM manufacturers to bring new, cutting-edge manufacturing processes in-house. This includes the development of high-end, direct bolt-in exhaust systems and other innovative components, designed and built entirely within our facility.

"This growth also led us to expand into a new division: Breezer Windows, a game-changing product line we're excited to officially launch at SEMA 2025. None of this would've happened without the exposure, credibility and industry connections that the TORA Showcase provided.

"For anyone in the truck and off-road world who's wondering whether applying to the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase is worth it--I can say without hesitation that it is. It's more than a display opportunity; it's a launchpad. It's a chance to get in front of the right eyes, to build real relationships, and to join a community that pushes you to elevate every detail of your craft.

"This industry thrives when we lift each other up--and that's exactly what TORA represents. If you're looking to build your brand, grow your network, and make a real impact, there's no better place to start than here."

Learn more about the TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase and apply at this link by Friday, August 1.

By Ashley Reyes

Registration for the 2026 SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, the aftermarket industry's premier conference for establishing connections between motorsports parts manufacturers and media professionals, is now open. Learn more and register at sema.org/mtc.

Taking place January 27-29 in Anaheim, California, the conference will unveil the latest news from top brands in the motorsports world, as they provide updates on new and innovative products spanning high-performance parts, safety equipment, fluids, maintenance and more.  

Unlike a traditional trade show, where exhibitors meet with buyers and resellers, the Media Trade Conference focuses on private 30-minute meetings between manufacturers and media. Manufacturers participate in more than 40 meetings over the course of three days, gaining valuable, curated connections with journalists, editors, writers, podcasters and content creators.  

"The Media Trade Conference is the only industry event where brands can meet one-on-one with both traditional media and established content creators that can help them promote their brands and products to mass audiences," said MPMC Director Marcy Yanus. "Our goal is to not only help our member manufacturers save time and money prospecting new partnerships but also discover how the media landscape is changing and leverage those insights to advance their business."  

Known for its speed-dating format, the MPMC Media Trade Conference makes it easy for exhibitors to share detailed information about their products, company updates and plans for the racing season. Media publish the content they collect on their channels year-round. To help attendees further their connections beyond the meetings, networking breaks and a reception are scheduled throughout the week. 

The Media Trade Conference is open to MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members. Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early. Early-bird pricing for exhibitors is $850 until September 8 and will increase to $950 beginning September 9. Media registration will open in September. Learn more and register at sema.org/mtc, and read a recap of the 2025 event here.

From the Washington, D.C., office

The recent adjournment of Connecticut's legislative session provided an opportunity for Moroso Performance Products to host Senator Christine Cohen and Representative Aimee Berger-Girvalo for a tour of its headquarters in Guilford. Both lawmakers serve as co-chairs of the Transportation Committee, which plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact the automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries.
 

Connecticut's specialty equipment aftermarket contributes significantly to the state's economy, annually generating $3.79 billion in economic output, supporting more than 13,323 jobs, and providing $1.26 billion in wages and benefits.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity for the Moroso team to engage directly with legislators, highlight key industry issues, showcase innovation and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the automotive aftermarket. The primary focus of the conversation centered on supporting local race track facilities, including efforts to protect them from frivolous lawsuits that threaten their viability and long-term operation. SEMA and PRI will continue our advocacy efforts during the next legislative session to ensure race tracks remain protected and motorsports can thrive in Connecticut and other states.
 

Host Your Own Tour

Inviting your local lawmakers to tour your business is a powerful way to showcase your operations and team, strengthen relationships with decision-makers and advocate for the industry's policy priorities.  
 

Visits like these are especially powerful when lawmakers see firsthand the craftsmanship, passion and hard work happening every day in small, family-run shops, which are the true backbone of the industry. It puts faces to the policies they debate and reminds them that behind every regulation are real people, jobs and communities.

Interested in hosting a lawmaker at your facility? SEMA's Government Affairs team is here to help make it happen. Please contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org. 

From the Washington, D.C., office

The recent adjournment of Connecticut's legislative session provided an opportunity for Moroso Performance Products to host Senator Christine Cohen and Representative Aimee Berger-Girvalo for a tour of its headquarters in Guilford. Both lawmakers serve as co-chairs of the Transportation Committee, which plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact the automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries.
 

Connecticut's specialty equipment aftermarket contributes significantly to the state's economy, annually generating $3.79 billion in economic output, supporting more than 13,323 jobs, and providing $1.26 billion in wages and benefits.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity for the Moroso team to engage directly with legislators, highlight key industry issues, showcase innovation and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the automotive aftermarket. The primary focus of the conversation centered on supporting local race track facilities, including efforts to protect them from frivolous lawsuits that threaten their viability and long-term operation. SEMA and PRI will continue our advocacy efforts during the next legislative session to ensure race tracks remain protected and motorsports can thrive in Connecticut and other states.
 

Host Your Own Tour

Inviting your local lawmakers to tour your business is a powerful way to showcase your operations and team, strengthen relationships with decision-makers and advocate for the industry's policy priorities.  
 

Visits like these are especially powerful when lawmakers see firsthand the craftsmanship, passion and hard work happening every day in small, family-run shops, which are the true backbone of the industry. It puts faces to the policies they debate and reminds them that behind every regulation are real people, jobs and communities.

Interested in hosting a lawmaker at your facility? SEMA's Government Affairs team is here to help make it happen. Please contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org. 

By Laura Pitts 

When a sitting president invites you to the White House, it marks a moment of real significance—especially for industries rarely given a seat at the table. The nation's largest automakers may be no strangers to the halls of Washington, D.C., but the same can't be said for the specialty automotive aftermarket's small business owners and manufacturers, tuners, restorers and innovators, and that's part of what makes SEMA's recent invitation to the White House so significant.  

On a landmark day on June 12 in Washington, D.C., SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, SEMA Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs Karen Bailey-Chapman and SEMA's Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs Eric Snyder stood among a select group of roughly 100 individuals invited to witness President Donald J. Trump sign a Congressional Review Act (CRA) that effectively overturned California's ban on the sale of new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. It was a historic moment for the automotive world and a pivotal victory for the countless small businesses that make up the heart of SEMA's membership. 

While the repeal itself marks a significant policy shift, the weight of SEMA's presence at the East Room signing ceremony cannot be overstated.  

"There are rare moments when the president of the United States hosts guests for a public signing ceremony. It is often reserved for major pieces of legislation and a president's priority initiatives," said Bailey-Chapman. "The passage and signing of the CRA that repealed California's EV mandates was a historical moment, and SEMA was invited to be there." 

The stakes behind this legislation were enormous. More than one-third of the specialty aftermarket is ICE-dependent, representing more than a $100 billion impact on the U.S. economy and approximately 300,000 jobs. "SEMA brought a unique and credible voice to the table. We were the only group representing small, U.S.-based automotive manufacturers," and it was our job to make sure lawmakers, voters and communities understood what was truly on the line, Bailey-Chapman added. 
 

SEMA News recently sat down with Spagnola to hear his perspective on what it was like to walk the halls of the White House on behalf of the specialty aftermarket industry. 

SEMA News: What was your reaction when you first got the invitation to the White House? 

Mike Spagnola: I was obviously shocked and surprised. I was actually on the way to Sacramento for the SEMA California Rally—literally in the car when I got the call. [For transparency, we] knew there was a possibility SEMA would be invited, but as more time passed, we weren't sure the ceremony was even going to happen. So, when I got the call, it was a real quick turnaround to change my travel plans; it was pretty exciting. Even on the airplane to D.C., I was thinking about the fact that I've never been to the White House. What a prestigious thing it was for SEMA to be invited to the White House to be part of a bill signing ceremony. It's huge, right? It's something we worked on for more than three years. Everybody rallied together to get us to this point, from every SEMA and PRI employee and members who saw that vision. It all came together.  

SN: Tell me about SEMA's campaign over the past three years. 

MS: America is built on innovation. We shouldn't stifle innovation—we should continue to let it grow. There's a lot of opportunity for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid and synthetic fuels, and low-emission fuels; hydrogen certainly has a future. SEMA members and America have all been built on innovation and design. Continuing to foster all technology, rather than the government picking one technology over another, that has always been our position. We really worked hard to get the word across that sweeping EV mandates were neither fair nor responsible to SEMA and its members. We're not against EVs; we think EVs are part of the future and that EV growth for SEMA could be tremendous. So, it was always with a lot of thought as to how we weave our way through the positioning of SEMA to say, "Look, we're for EVs. We just don't think the government should mandate one technology or another." And our message was clearly heard.