DIHK foreign trade chief Volker Treier comments on the EU-US agreement.
20/05/2026 - The agreement in the trialogue sends an important signal regarding trade policy: The EU demonstrates reliability in trade with the USA by implementing the Turnberry Deal on its side. This is urgently needed, as Germany's economy finally needs more predictability in its international business dealings, rather than constant new uncertainties.
It is now crucial for the Council and the European Parliament to swiftly finalize the agreement. The goal must be to prevent further escalations and additional tariff burdens in transatlantic trade. One positive aspect is that the agreement includes safeguard mechanisms should the US fail to comply with their commitments. Reciprocity is vital for reliability. The USA remains the most significant export market for many German businesses. It is equally important that the effects of the unilateral EU tariff reductions, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, are continuously monitored, with agreed measures implemented where necessary.
However, the deal does not fundamentally resolve the issues in transatlantic trade. Europe primarily gains time with this agreement. The EU should utilize this time to continue urging for the removal of unlawful US tariffs, firmly rejecting additional trade policy burdens, and advancing new trade agreements and strategic partnerships. Economic resilience is primarily achieved through broader and more reliable international relations.”
(Note: This PDF is only available in German)
- Relevant in topic:
- Internationaler Handel
- Key areas:
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- Außenwirtschaft
- Zoll
- US-Handelspolitik
Released 20.05.2026
Modified 26.05.2026
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