"Trilogue negotiations on the US tariff deal begin today. It is crucial that the framework agreement between the US and the EU is not jeopardized. Any subsequent deviation from the so-called 'Turnberry Agreement' risks undermining the entire agreement. This applies to both sides.

The top priority must be to create planning certainty for companies. It's obvious: reliable and stable framework conditions are of central importance to companies in the German automotive industry. Against this backdrop, the German Association of the Automotive Industry has fundamentally welcomed the tariff agreement between the US and the EU announced in July.

At the same time, the existing burdens remain considerable: The currently applicable US tariffs of 15% on passenger cars and auto parts continue to pose a significant challenge. Equally serious are the high additional US tariffs of 25% on European commercial vehicles and their parts, and 10% on buses, imposed after the agreement was reached, which represent a major burden for the affected companies. These remain on the agenda!

One thing is certain: the conflict over tariffs with the US has once again made clear how important a strong European economy is. The EU must create conditions for businesses and investors in such a way that Europe regains its attractiveness in global competition. Furthermore, it is essential to pursue the conclusion of free trade agreements and commodity partnerships with as many regions of the world as possible with greater speed, determination, and pragmatism. New alliances are of paramount importance in times of major geopolitical challenges. At the same time, in addition to strengthening its own competitiveness, the EU should advocate strongly for better framework conditions and increased cooperation in transatlantic trade. Further escalation of the tariff dispute must be avoided at all costs."