GENEVA, Switzerland - In what economists are calling a "substantial de-escalation," the United States and China have agreed to a temporary 115% cut to reciprocal tariffs on each other's goods. The uncertainty and unpredictability of the policy by the Trump administration is creating an all-new problem for the bicycle industry which was just close to stabilisation after the inventory problems.

As the dust settles after December 13, 2024 - of course you all know by now that's the date when the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) came into effect - numerous ambiguities remain. Flaws, gaps, and even loopholes are crying out for more clarity. At the time of writing this blog, we are still awaiting the European Commission's guidance document, which is expected to provide some of this much-needed clarity.

WASHINGTON DC, United States - Newly announced reciprocal tariffs by the Trump administration in the US has brought a renewed level of uncertainty to the bicycle industry supply chain. The proposed tariffs mean all bicycles entering the country will face some level of tariffs unless the frame itself has been manufactured in the US. The expected result is rising costs for importers on which the market relies and a stagnating retail market as US consumers face higher prices for a new bike.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - The reaction to the EU's recent decision to extend the anti-dumping and countervailing measures against imports e-bike from China doesn't come near the heavy discussions six years ago when the measures were implemented for the first time. For that reason, LEVA-EU now draws attention to the cheap and non-compliant e-bike from China and the complex exemption processes for 'made in China' e-bike components.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - The European Union and Malaysia will soon start negotiating a free trade agreement (FTA) that could have a major impact on the bicycle industry. The Southeast Asian country is home to Shimano supplier Kwang Li Industry.

GENT, Belgium - Trade association LEVA-EU is inviting e-bike manufacturers and assemblers across Europe to participate in a newly launched survey. The survey is designed to gather insights on the impact of European anti-dumping duties on bicycle components imported from China, aiming to provide a clearer understanding of how these tariffs affect the industry's competitiveness, business operations, and market growth.