BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - The German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) views the new punitive tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump against Germany and other European countries as a serious strain on transatlantic relations. "The costs resulting from these additional tariffs would be enormous for both the German and European industries – especially in already challenging times," warned VDA President Hildegard Müller.
From Müller's perspective, what is now crucial is "a smart, strategic, and coordinated response from Brussels with the affected countries." "Snap decisions will only lead to escalation and a possible spiral that produces nothing but losers," said the VDA President. "It is undoubtedly true that the USA must respect Greenland's free will."
Trump had announced tariffs against Germany as well as Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Finland: 10 percent on all goods starting February 1, and 25 percent from June 1 – to remain in place until an agreement is reached on the "complete and comprehensive purchase of Greenland." /sl/DP/zb
