U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the introduction of tariffs of 25% on imported cars and components, set to take effect in April and May 2025. This decision has sparked sharp criticism from world leaders, as many countries are expected to suffer significant economic losses due to American tariffs.
This is reported by Finway
Reactions from Canada, Mexico, and Japan
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the new tariffs as a “direct attack” on the agreement between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. The Ottawa government is already considering the possibility of imposing its own tariffs on products from the U.S. The Canadian Cabinet Committee on U.S.-Canada Relations has convened an emergency meeting to discuss further actions.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced a “comprehensive response” to the U.S. decision, emphasizing that her government is working on the possibility of canceling or reducing tariffs on certain cars and parts manufactured in Mexico. Japan is also planning to consider “all options” in response to the new tariffs, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba calling for Japan to be exempted from the tariff restrictions, as Japan invests in the U.S. and creates new jobs.
Reactions from Other Countries
In South Korea, Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun acknowledged that local automotive companies may face serious difficulties due to the new tariffs. Hyundai, one of the largest manufacturers, has already committed to investing $21 billion in the U.S. over the next three years to expand its production capacity.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that these tariffs could harm Americans themselves, although no retaliatory measures have been announced by the EU at this time. Meanwhile, China, despite its automotive industry remaining relatively insulated from these tariffs, has urged the U.S. to adhere to World Trade Organization rules.
The United Kingdom also does not plan to impose retaliatory tariffs, although the United States remains the second-largest market for British cars, following only the European Union.
Trump called it a “grand growth” for the U.S. automotive industry in the future, but critics believe this could lead to increased prices and heightened tensions with allies.