The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has called for a ‘swift resolution’ of the US-EU trade dispute, in order to protect jobs and automotive investment in Europe.
Commenting on the Trump administration’s tariff announcement, Sigrid de Vries, director general of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) warned that unresolved trade tensions could disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and reduce the global competitiveness of European manufacturers.
‘Deeply concerned’
“We are deeply concerned about the escalation of trade tensions in the world,” she said. “European automakers are committed to being active in the US, making an important contribution to the US economy, accounting for around half a million jobs across the auto sector, exporting over 750,000 vehicles to the US in 2024, and actively investing in local communities to foster economic prosperity.”
The association is calling for urgent discussions between policymakers, to ensure the re-establishing of a working, predictable trade environment.
“We urge our leaders to meet urgently so that they can find a solution to any issues preventing free and fair trade between historic allies and allow the EU-US relationship to flourish once again,” de Vries added.
A major employer
Some 13.2 million Europeans currently work in the automotive sector, which is responsible for 10.3% of all manufacturing jobs in the EU.
The sector generates over 7.5% of the EU’s GDP and provides €383.7 billion in tax revenue to European governments. It also maintains a €106.7 billion trade surplus and invests €72.8 billion annually in research and development – equating to one-third of the EU’s total R&D spending.
ACEA represents 16 major car, van, truck, and bus manufacturers across Europe, including BMW Group, DAF Trucks, Daimler Truck, Ferrari, Ford of Europe, Honda Motor Europe, Hyundai Motor Europe, Iveco Group, JLR, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Renault Group, Stellantis, Toyota Motor Europe, Volkswagen Group, and Volvo Group. Read more here.
