European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed regret following US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on imported European cars. The tariffs, set to take effect on April 2, will apply to all vehicles assembled outside the United States, impacting global car manufacturers and creating tensions between the US and the EU.
In a statement, von der Leyen emphasized that the automotive sector is a key driver of innovation and jobs, with tightly integrated supply chains between Europe and the US. She warned that tariffs would hurt businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic, adding that the EU would assess the situation and explore potential responses, including seeking negotiated solutions to safeguard its economic interests.
Trump’s move, announced from the Oval Office, seeks to charge a 25% tariff on all cars and trucks not made in the US, including vehicles from Europe, Asia, and elsewhere. He framed the tariffs as part of a broader effort to address trade imbalances, claiming that other countries have “taken” American wealth and jobs for years.
The tariffs will target roughly half of all cars sold in the US, potentially disrupting the automotive industry and sparking retaliatory measures from the EU. While Trump’s administration insists the tariffs will be “lenient,” the move has already drawn significant concern from European leaders.
