Germany says Trump's auto tariffs would harm both US, EU economies

BERLIN

German Economy Minister Robert Habeck on Thursday warned that the newly announced US tariffs on cars and auto parts would have negative consequences for both sides of the Atlantic.

“This is bad news for German automakers, for the German economy, for the EU, but also for the United States,” Habeck said in a statement. “It will disrupt global supply chains and will also make US cars more expensive. Prices in the US will continue to rise.”

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday imposing 25% tariffs on imports of foreign-made cars and light trucks, as part of his broader efforts to increase trade taxes on foreign goods.

Habeck underlined that the EU was prepared for this scenario and member states will take the necessary measures. “It is now crucial for the EU to give a firm response to the tariffs—it must be clear that we will not back down in the face of the US,” he said.

He also expressed hope for a negotiated solution between the US and the EU to prevent an escalation of trade tensions.

“We will continue to support the European Commission in negotiations to find a solution with the US that averts a tariff spiral. Tariffs ultimately harm the US and the EU, and global trade as a whole,” he added.