Club Car and U.S. Coalition Stand Against Unfair Trade Practices in Washington Testimony

Club Car and U.S. LSPTV Coalition's Stand Against Unfair Trade

On June 12, 2025, Club Car executives presented their case at the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) in Washington, D.C. This testimony was part of the ITC's final hearing regarding allegations of dumping and subsidizing related to low-speed vehicle imports from China. The outcome of this case may significantly impact U.S. manufacturers and their ability to compete.

The hearing, described as a crucial phase in assessing the effects of relevant Chinese imports on the U.S. market, is vital for determining if such practices have led to material damage to the domestic industry. Congressman Rick Allen expressed strong sentiments regarding the need for fair trade practices, stating, "On a level playing field, U.S. companies can out-innovate and out-compete anyone in the world." However, he pointed out that the competitive landscape is heavily distorted when foreign companies leverage government support to undercut U.S. pricing.

Club Car leaders presented firsthand accounts of the ongoing struggles they face due to these unfair practices. The company has experienced a series of challenges including lost sales, suppressed prices, and mounting competitive pressure in their core markets for personal transportation and golf fleets. Mark Wagner, the retiring President and CEO of Club Car, emphasized the negative impact on American workers, stating, "We had to take a stand to protect the American workers who build our cars every day to support their families and have experienced lower take-home pay."

The backdrop to this hearing includes a preliminary determination from the Commerce Department indicating that Chinese manufacturers have been benefiting from extensive government subsidies and significantly undervaluing their products to penetrate the U.S. market. The ITC's ruling will influence whether additional duties will be enacted for the subsequent five years, shaping the landscape for local producers.

Mark Rickell, Vice President of Sales for Club Car in the Americas, voiced serious concerns regarding the implications of unrestricted Chinese imports, saying, "Chinese producers are flooding the market with lookalike vehicles at artificially low prices—and the consequences have been real for our business, our employees, and our dealers." He highlighted that every segment of the market is affected, leading to a deterioration in the economic feasibility of production for U.S. companies.

Representatives from a broader coalition of U.S. manufacturers also lent their voices during the hearing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining equitable market conditions and the enforcement of trade regulations. Wagner concluded, expressing confidence in the ITC's objectivity: "We appreciate the Commission's thorough and objective review of the facts. We are confident the evidence clearly shows that these imports have harmed our industry and threaten the long-term viability of U.S. innovation and jobs."

Club Car is actively collaborating with industry partners and federal agencies to uphold fair trade practices in an effort to protect American manufacturing. The organization boasts a rich history of over 60 years in the industry, recognized for their exceptional design and performance in small-wheel vehicles, primarily headquartered in Augusta, Georgia.

Despite a legacy steeped in golf operations, Club Car has broadened its offerings to encompass various commercial and personal use vehicles, all while emphasizing quality and customer satisfaction. The brand encompasses other premium vehicle lines like Garia and Melex, pointing towards an expansive vision for the future while advocating for fair trade.

By addressing these crucial trade issues, Club Car highlights the significance of maintaining a balanced competitive environment that fosters innovation and preserves jobs in the U.S. manufacturing sector.