02.03.2026 - “It is good that the Chancellor is seeking dialogue in Washington. Right now, our businesses increasingly need one thing: clarity in our economic relations. Trade policy uncertainty with the USA has long become a real risk factor for the German economy. 

Almost one year after the so-called 'Liberation Day' and the announcement of blanket punitive tariffs, the situation has not calmed – on the contrary. The most recent ruling by the US Supreme Court, overturning a central legal basis for customs policy, further increases uncertainty. New measures are on the horizon, possible refunds remain unresolved – this is far from predictability. A recent survey of German companies engaged in exporting shows that more than two-thirds of companies with US business are already noticeably impacted in their activities by trade policy unpredictability. 

The strategy of forcing investments in the USA through high tariffs has not worked so far. Only a small minority is planning to make new or additional investments there. Half of the companies are scaling back their engagement or postponing projects. Those who want to attract investments must foster trust – not daily policy swings. 

Thus, it is clear: Dialogue is both correct and necessary. But it must lead to resilient and reliable solutions. Our companies need stable frameworks – not another escalation round in transatlantic trade.”