politics
Trump Announces 25% Tariffs on EU Cars and Trucks
President Trump stated he will raise tariffs on cars and trucks imported from the European Union to 25% next week, citing non-compliance with a trade deal agreed last July. The current tariff rate is 15%. The European Commission said it is adhering to commitments and will consider options to protect EU interests.
France 24Audio version
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President Trump announced an increase in tariffs on cars and trucks imported from the European Union to 25%, escalating trade tensions. The move targets the automotive sector, which forms a significant part of Europe's economy. The announcement was made via a post on Truth Social and confirmed to reporters.
The tariff hike comes less than a year after a deal set levies on most European goods at 15%. That agreement was reached at Trump's Turnberry golf course in Scotland, averting threatened 30% tariffs under the 'Liberation Day' plan. In exchange, Europe agreed to invest in the US and adjust policies to boost US exports.
Tensions have risen over issues including US threats to annex Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory, leading the European Parliament to suspend approval of the deal in January. The deal was approved in March with a clause allowing suspension if the US undermines objectives, discriminates against EU operators, threatens territorial integrity, or engages in economic coercion.
Further disputes involve steel and aluminium tariffs, where major European economies like Germany and France rejected US adjustment plans. Products containing steel and aluminium now face average tariffs of 26%, according to Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament's international trade committee.
>"This latest move demonstrates just how unreliable the US side is. It seeks clarity on US commitments and will keep options open to protect EU interests if inconsistent measures are taken. Bernd Lange told the BBC that Trump's behavior is unacceptable and dismissed arguments of EU non-fulfillment.
He noted the European Parliament is drafting necessary legislation to finalize by June, despite pauses due to US pressure over Greenland and a US Supreme Court decision. President Trump urged European carmakers to shift production to the US to avoid tariffs, stating that billions of dollars are being invested in US plants, described as a record in car and truck manufacturing history.
