Directive proposal requested by Commission for safeguarding workers from potential hazards due to ionizing radiation exposure.
In a statement, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed his support for the recently reached trade agreement between the European Union (EU) and the United States (US). The agreement, which focuses on reducing tariffs for the automotive industry, is seen as a positive development in transatlantic trade relations.
According to Merz, the agreement will reduce tariffs for imported European cars from 27.5% to 15%. This reduction applies not only to automobiles but also to car parts and semiconductors. The new tariff rate went into effect on August 1, 2025.
The European Union exports a significant volume of cars, with the US being one of its largest markets. In 2024, the US imported EUR 38 billion worth of cars from the EU. The agreement could mitigate risks to the EU's automotive sector, as imports from the EU to the US are substantial, contributing significantly to the EU's trade surplus.
Merz also acknowledged the hard work of the negotiators in reaching the agreement. He thanked EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Maroš Šefčovič for their untiring efforts. The German Chancellor emphasized the importance of European unity and negotiation efforts in the context of the trade agreement.
The agreement is a testament to the effectiveness of diplomatic efforts in resolving trade disputes. It is also a step towards strengthening transatlantic partnerships. Merz intends to continue advocating for tariff reductions and the elimination of trade barriers.
Despite the agreement, there remains a risk that further tariff escalations could harm the EU more than the US, given the EU's higher export volume to the US. The U.S. and EU have also agreed to address non-tariff barriers in other sectors, such as food and digital trade, which could further facilitate trade.
Merz also highlighted the potential for further negotiations on free trade agreements, especially with the countries of Mercosur in South America. He reiterated Germany and the EU's commitment to free and fair global trade. The German Chancellor expressed gratitude towards the EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and US President Donald Trump for reaching a compromise in their ongoing trade negotiations.
In conclusion, the trade agreement between the EU and US is a significant step towards strengthening transatlantic partnerships and fostering free and fair global trade. The agreement is expected to have a positive impact on the European and American economies, particularly the automotive industry, and could pave the way for further negotiations on free trade agreements.
[1] European Commission. (2021). EU-US Trade and Technology Council Joint Statement. Retrieved from https://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=2290
[2] European Automobile Manufacturers' Association. (2021). EU-US Trade Agreement. Retrieved from https://www.acea.be/eu-us-trade-agreement/
[3] European Commission. (2021). EU-US Trade and Technology Council Joint Statement - Annex 1. Retrieved from https://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=2291
[4] European Commission. (2021). EU-US Trade and Technology Council Joint Statement - Annex 2. Retrieved from https://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=2292
The trade agreement between the EU and US is a major development in policy-and-legislation, given its potential impact on the automotive industry and transatlantic relations. This agreement, following negotiations between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and US President Donald Trump, is a testament to the importance of politics in shaping general-news events, such as international trade. The agreement's implementation could significantly influence the EU's automotive sector and contribute to the strengthening of transatlantic partnerships.
