Trump Imposes 25% Tariffs on Imported Cars: Global Impact

US President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 25% tariff on imported cars has triggered a global political and economic shockwave. Far from being just a trade policy measure, this announcement has sparked a wave of responses from governments, automotive manufacturers, economists, investors, and labor leaders.

What Are the 25% Tariffs and What Does Trump Aim to Achieve?

On April 2, the tariffs, which President Trump referred to as “Liberation Day,” went into effect. The official justification from the White House is straightforward: the United States imports over 8 million cars annually, a figure they deem unsustainable.

Government Objectives:

• Boost domestic manufacturing jobs.
• Raise between $600 billion and $1 trillion in revenue.
• Reduce dependence on foreign car imports.

Direct Impact on Consumers

According to various market studies:

• The average price of an imported car could rise between $2,000 and $7,000.
• Local brands will also suffer due to increased costs of foreign parts.
• Automobile inflation will affect consumer indexes and economic growth.

The Big Automakers Respond

General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis

Although these companies have a strong presence in the US, they rely on foreign production. Ford has stated that the tariffs are a "tax on the American consumer."

Tesla: The Only Winner?

Tesla might benefit by manufacturing 100% in the US, though it too will suffer from rising general costs.

Reactions from Mexico and Canada

Both countries have expressed their disapproval. Mexico is considering retaliatory measures, while Canada suspended its election campaign to discuss countermeasures.

"This measure marks the end of a historic relationship... We will not let this attack go unanswered." — Canadian Prime Minister

Europe: Germany in the Eye of the Storm

Volkswagen, BMW, and Audi in the Crosshairs

German automakers face losses. Stock markets reacted negatively, and a decline in exports is anticipated.

Japan and South Korea: Maximum Alert in Asia

Japan is demanding exclusion from the tariffs. Toyota, Nissan, and Honda will be affected. South Korea, despite producing in the US, will also suffer from parts imports.

Reindustrialization or Setback?

Analysts argue that the tariffs won’t necessarily bring jobs back due to:

• High labor costs in the US.
• Increasing automation.
• High costs of relocating factories.
• It will take years to see benefits.

Geopolitical Repercussions

• The EU is considering reciprocal tariffs.
• Canada plans dollar-for-dollar retaliatory measures.
• Tensions rise with Germany.
• Impact on agreements like USMCA.

 A Triumph or a Calculated Risk?

Donald Trump’s tariff policy marks a turning point. It could benefit strategic sectors, but it also involves inflation, retaliatory measures, and diplomatic tensions. The era of free trade without conditions seems to be over.