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Report: Harley-Davidson to build factory in Thailand

Harley-Davidson is building a new factory in Thailand, The New York Times reported. The plant will build motorcycles for Asia, as Harley-Davidson looks to avoid paying Thailand’s up to 60 percent tariff on imported motorcycles.

“This is absolutely not about taking jobs out of the United States,” said Marc D. McAllister, a managing director of international sales at Harley-Davidson based in Singapore. “This is about growing our business in Asia.”

To read the story from The New York Times, click here.

United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard released the following statement after The New York Times published the story. The USW represents members at Harley’s plants in Wisconsin and Missouri.

“Harley-Davidson has been the crown jewel of American manufacturing. It’s an iconic brand that represents true American spirit. Management’s decision to offshore production is a slap in the face to the American worker and to hundreds of thousands of Harley riders across the country.

“This decision puts in jeopardy one of the few remaining genuine U.S. brands.

“Our members have been true partners with this company, working in good times and bad to make great products that fostered its growth and success. We remember the U.S. government stepping up in the 1980s to save Harley-Davidson and contributing to its revival.

“Harley owners and prospective buyers across the globe want to continue to enjoy machines made in America that provide quality rides and unique experiences. Harley’s potential outsourcing of production puts all of this at risk.

“Offshoring production is the wrong path to prosperity. It puts in jeopardy the success that has propelled Harley over the years: It is a brand of excellence that enables riders to confidently know that they are joining a special community of enthusiasts.

“Harley-Davidson should abandon their offshoring plans and expand their operations here in America.”

 

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One Comment

  1. With a 60% TAX being added to the cost of goods, the only way a company can hope to compete in Asia and grow its market share and strengthen the organization back in the states, is to find a way to avoid a 60% tax. (by strengthening the company back in the U.S.A. through investment in Asia will help to ensure the Jobs in the U.S.A continue on), That way is to invest in a manufacturing facility in that country which has a very able employee pool that offers a high level of manufacturing capabilities.

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