Trump Plans Tariff Hike on EU Auto Imports

WASHINGTON: (Web Desk) – Former US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he plans to raise tariffs on cars and trucks imported from the European Union, accusing the bloc of failing to honor a previously agreed trade deal. The agreement, reached last summer, had set US tariffs on European automobiles and parts at 15 percent—lower than the 25 percent rate imposed on several other countries. However, Trump now says the tariff will be increased back to 25 percent starting next week.

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He did not clearly explain how the EU has violated the deal but made the announcement shortly after criticizing Germany’s leadership. The move could heavily impact Germany, one of the largest exporters of vehicles to the US. Although the European Parliament has conditionally approved the trade agreement, it still requires final negotiations with EU member states before full implementation.

Meanwhile, discussions between EU and US officials have continued, with European representatives pushing for relief from existing US steel tariffs. The United States remains a major destination for EU vehicle exports, accounting for over 20 percent of shipments, with Germany alone exporting hundreds of thousands of vehicles annually.