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The President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced on Tuesday that his administration will impose a 25% tariff on imported cars starting April 2.
The measure, as explained by the president, aims to balance the commercial rates with countries that impose tariffs on American exports.
"I will probably announce it officially on April 2, but it will be around 25%," Trump declared from the Oval Office of the White House.
The president had already indicated his intention to impose these levies on February 14, when he signed a memorandum to impose "reciprocal tariffs" on nations that charge high fees on U.S. products.
Trump explained that the decision was originally scheduled for April 1, but he chose to postpone it by one day for personal reasons.
"I am a bit superstitious. We had a plan for April 1st, but I said: Let's do it on the 2nd. Do you know how much money that costs? It costs a lot of money just for that day, but we will do it on the 2nd," said the leader, in statements quoted by Telemundo.
The measure will not take effect immediately, but will be implemented within "weeks" or "months," as specified by the president. The first countries to be affected will be those with which the U.S. has the largest trade deficit, such as the European Union (EU) and Japan.
Trump views the new tariffs as a matter of economic "justice." "We will charge the same that a country makes us pay, no more, no less," he stated.
The leader also criticized the EU for using VAT (Value Added Tax) as a "covert tariff" that harms American products in the European market.
The automotive sector will be one of the most affected. Currently, the U.S. imposes a tariff of 2.5% on imported vehicles, while the EU applies a 10% tariff, in addition to the VAT, which ranges from 17% to 27% depending on the country.
The new U.S. policy would impose an equivalent tariff, increasing the total rate for a vehicle by up to 27%.
Last week, Trump also warned the BRICS bloc (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) that he could impose a 100% tariff if they attempt to undermine the dollar in international trade.
"If the BRICS play with the dollar, on the same day we will impose a 100% tariff on them," he stated. The initiative is part of Trump's strategy to use tariffs as a tool of pressure in trade, immigration, and security negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Tariffs on Automobiles in the United States
What tariff will Trump impose on imported cars?
Donald Trump will impose a 25% tariff on imported automobiles starting April 2, 2025. This measure aims to balance trade tariffs with countries that tax American exports.
When will the new tariff on automobiles take effect?
Although the official announcement will be made on April 2, 2025, the measure will not take effect immediately. It will be implemented within a timeframe of "weeks" or "months," as indicated by Trump.
Which countries will be most affected by the new tariffs on automobiles?
The countries most affected will be those with which the United States has a larger trade deficit, such as the European Union and Japan. These countries already impose higher tariffs on American products, which has prompted Trump's tariff response.
What is the purpose of the reciprocal tariffs announced by Trump?
The objective of reciprocal tariffs is to balance trade rates between the United States and other countries. Trump aims for the U.S. to charge other countries the same tariffs that they impose on American products, in order to achieve economic "justice."
How could these tariffs affect the automotive sector in the United States?
The U.S. automotive sector may face an increase in import costs, which could result in higher prices for end consumers. Additionally, it could lead to trade tensions with affected countries, such as the EU and Japan, which may retaliate.
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