The looming specter of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on the automotive industry poses significant threats to the European job market. A recent study reveals that these tariffs could jeopardize 25,000 jobs across major car manufacturers like VW, Mercedes, BMW, and Stellantis. The potential revenue losses are staggering, with manufacturers and suppliers facing a combined loss of up to $17.1 billion. The fixed costs, constituting 40% of supplier expenses, exacerbate profitability challenges, as demand could plummet by up to 185,000 units.
Meanwhile, Trump's insistence on the EU increasing its imports of US oil and gas adds another layer of economic tension. Failure to comply could result in tariffs on European goods, as Trump seeks to address a significant trade deficit. The EU's strategic response involves bolstering its trade policies and considering alternatives such as replacing Russian LNG with American exports.
In Mexico, concerns escalate over potential tariffs on exports to the US, particularly as the country grapples with its trade imbalance with China. The USMCA agreement, under scrutiny for its impact on non-market economies like China, could see renegotiations aimed at closing 'loopholes'. Amidst these developments, industries worldwide brace for economic shifts, underscoring the far-reaching influence of US trade policies.
