Containerschiff steuert auf die US-Stadt Seattle zu
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Policy Dossier

How to Deal with US Trade Policy?

DIHK positions and industry-specific developments on US trade policy – concisely summarised for companies.

US supplementary tariffs and a protectionist approach are driving up costs and complicating transatlantic business; nevertheless, the USA remains an important market for German companies. What is at stake for the German economy? And: Are there options for a robust collaboration?

With the second presidency of Donald Trump and the introduction of comprehensive supplementary tariffs, US trade policy has shifted more than ever towards protectionism. For the German economy, the new US tariff policy brings additional costs, bureaucracy, and significant uncertainty. However, despite all political tensions, the United States remains Germany's most important trading partner.

The USA simultaneously serves as a sales market, investment location, and hub of global supply chains. Decisions in Washington directly impact German companies – from mechanical engineering to the chemical industry to medium-sized businesses.

How does the DIHK position itself regarding the impacts of US trade policy? Which developments are especially relevant for German exporters? And how can transatlantic trade be strengthened in the long term?

Answers, assessments, and background information can be found in this dossier – with DIHK positions and contributions from our network.

Weiterführende Links

Representative of German Industry and Trade (RGIT)

Der RGIT informiert als Vertretung der BDI und der DIHK in Washington über die deutsch-amerikanischen Wirtschaftsbeziehungen: www.rgit-usa.com

German American Business Outlook (GABO)

Die jährliche Umfrage der Deutsch-Amerikanischen Handelskammern erfasst die aktuelle wirtschaftliche Lage im transatlantischen Geschäftsklima. Die 2025 Ergebnisse sind live.

Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI)

Aktuelle Informationen zu zollrechtlichen Änderungen sowie fundierte Analysen zur US-Handelspolitik finden Sie auf der Website der GTAI.

(only available in German)

Relevant in topic:
International Trade and Market Access
Key areas:
  • Customs
  • Commerce
  • Supply Chains
  • Foreign Trade
  • US Trade Policy

All articles of this dossier

Reaktion von Volker Treier
© DIHK / Werner Schuering
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© DIHK / Werner Schuering
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Reaktion von Volker Treier
© DIHK / Werner Schuering
Reaction International Trade and Market Access

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Porträtfoto Melanie Vogelbach
© DIHK / Paul Aidan Perry
Reaction International Trade and Market Access

One Year of 'Liberation Day' Tariffs: Deep Impact on Transatlantic Relations

Melanie Vogelbach, Head of International Economic Policy at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), comments on this

Date of publication 02.04.2026
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US trade policy severely impacts German companies

The United States is the most important export market for German companies. However, business relations with the USA have lost significant reliability. The consequences for the German industry are illustrated in a special analysis of the DIHK survey "Going International 2026".

Date of publication 10.03.2026
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© DIHK / Werner Schuering
Reaction International Trade and Market Access

"Uncertainty for German companies in US business remains high"

Dr. Volker Treier of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) on the US Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA tariffs.

Date of publication 20.02.2026
Capitol USA
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One Year of New US Administration: The Challenge of Transatlantic Trade

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Date of publication 17.12.2025
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© Glowimages / Getty Images
Surveys and Figures International Trade and Market Access

Customs Deal with the USA Brings Further Concerns Rather Than Relief

Instead of relief, concerns arise: Why the customs agreement is turning into a "bitter pill" for many, what costs await companies and consumers – and where German businesses are refocusing their attention.

Date of publication 06.08.2025
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In Focus International Trade and Market Access

US Tariffs Put German Economy Under Pressure

The erratic US trade policies significantly affect international business for German companies. Even the latest tariff deal between the US and the EU does not bring certainty but rather indicates that high US tariffs are becoming the norm. The EU is now required to act confidently and...

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© xavierarnau / E+ / Getty Images
Surveys and Figures International Trade and Market Access

USA in the 'New Normal' – Impacts of Trade Policy

After turbulent months, the sentiment of German businesses in the USA is stabilising. A special analysis by the DIHK on the AHK World Business Outlook Autumn 2025 reveals: High tariffs and industrial policy directives remain the greatest challenges for German businesses in the USA.

Date of publication 10.12.2025

Ansprechpartner

Porträtfoto von Paul Meyer

Paul Meyer

Director US Trade Policy

E-mail
meyer.paul@dihk.de
Telephone
+49 30 20308 2338