Recreational Boating Industry Kicks Off High-Impact Advocacy Week in Nation’s Capital

The recreational boating industry will officially convene today in the nation’s capital for the start of the 2025 American Boating Congress (ABC), bringing together manufacturers, dealers, retailers, and stakeholders from across the country for three days of critical dialogue, policy engagement and industry strategy.

Hosted by the NMMA, ABC 2025 marks a pivotal opportunity for the industry to unite in advancing its advocacy agenda and shaping the future of recreational boating in the U.S. With a packed agenda featuring keynote speakers, issue briefings, networking events, and meetings with members of Congress and key government stakeholders, the event is designed to ensure the voice of marine businesses is heard at the highest levels of government.
“Our theme this year, Made in America – Resilience and Innovation, couldn’t be timelier, said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president and CEO. “We’re navigating both opportunity and uncertainty. On the opportunity side, we see real momentum on Capitol Hill: a chance to secure and advance a pro-growth tax code that supports your ability to reinvest and compete. We’ve also made significant progress on regulations, thanks to the industry’s voices and our collective advocacy.”
ABC 2025 will spotlight policy topics including environmental regulations, manufacturing competitiveness, trade, marine infrastructure, and economic trends affecting boating participation. Attendees will also hear from thought leaders and agency officials on key developments impacting the industry.
Click here for the full agenda and event details.
Stay tuned to NMMA Currents for daily updates and key takeaways from speakers, policy panels and expert sessions throughout the week.
Thank you to American Boating Congress Executive Sponsors: Marine Max, InformaMarkets and Yamaha.
Additional ABC Sponsors include:
Admiral’s Level: Brunswick, Correct Craft, Polaris Marine, Suzuki Marine, and Tiara Yachts
Captain’s Level: BoatUS, Indmar, Smoker Craft, Vetus-Yanmar, and Volvo Penta
First Mate’s Level: Center for Sportfishing Policy, Design Concepts-Marine Concepts, International Yacht Brokers Association, Northpoint Commercial Finance, Sea-Doo, and Transhield
Purser’s Level: Chaparral-Robalo Boats, Info-Link, Marine Industries Association of South Florida, Midwest Industries, and Suntex Marinas
Supporting: Boats Group, BoatUS,  Brunswick, National Marine Electronics Association, Patrick Industries, and Regulator Marine