The administrator of the Government Efficiency Department of the White House during Donald Trump's second presidency, Elon Musk, has expressed his disagreement with the recent tariff policies of the current administration.
During a video conference intervention at the Italian League party congress in Florence, Musk advocated for the creation of a free trade zone between the United States and Europe, with "zero tariffs" and greater freedom of labor movement between the two continents.
These statements come just days after President Trump imposed a 20% tariff on imports from the European Union, a measure that has intensified global trade tensions.
Musk expressed his hope that both regions can move towards a trade relationship without tariff restrictions, noting that "with tariffs, I hope it is ultimately agreed that both Europe and the U.S. should advance towards a zero-tariff situation, thereby creating a free trade area between Europe and North America."
Furthermore, Musk emphasized the importance of facilitating labor mobility between Europe and the United States, stating that "if people want to work in Europe or North America, they should be able to do so".
“That has certainly been my advice to the president”, Musk concluded, as cited by the agency Efe. This perspective stands in stark contrast to the more restrictive immigration and trade policies promoted by the Trump administration.
The reaction from the White House was immediate. Peter Navarro, Trump's chief trade advisor and architect of the current tariff policy, dismissed Musk's criticisms, suggesting that the businessman is protecting his own commercial interests.
Navarro stated that "Musk is concerned about his supply chain, which heavily relies on parts from countries such as China, Mexico, Japan, and Taiwan."
On the other side of the Atlantic, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced that the EU is willing to negotiate a free trade agreement based on the “zero for zero” principle: zero tariffs, zero subsidies, and zero non-tariff barriers for industrial products.
According to a statement released this Monday, Brussels has already reached out to Washington to initiate technical discussions aimed at a formal negotiation. The Union also warned that, should there be no progress, it is prepared to implement proportional countermeasures, a clear signal that it will not accept unilateral measures without a response.
In parallel to this controversy, reports have begun to circulate suggesting a possible departure of Musk from his current role leading DOGE. Sources close to the White House indicated that Trump has informed his inner circle and cabinet members that Musk will take a step back in the coming weeks.
However, the Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, stated that it was "garbage" information, but she did not actually deny the claims made in the article by columnist Rachael Bade in the magazine Politico.
Musk's criticisms also take place within a context of growing concern among major tech entrepreneurs in the U.S. According to a report by El Confidencial, the recent wave of tariffs has resulted in stock market losses exceeding one trillion dollars in the first quarter of 2025.
The most affected have been the billionaires of the technology sector, including Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Tim Cook, whose companies heavily rely on supply chains and international markets.
The volatility generated by tariff policies has reduced investor confidence and triggered a wave of adjustments in the growth projections of key Nasdaq companies.
In this context, Musk's call for free trade is interpreted not only as a political stance but also as an attempt to stem the financial bleeding that many U.S. companies with a global presence are facing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Free Trade between the U.S. and Europe
What does Elon Musk propose regarding trade between the U.S. and Europe?
Elon Musk proposes the creation of a free trade zone between the United States and Europe with zero tariffs. Additionally, he advocates for greater labor mobility between the two continents, arguing that this would benefit both economies in the long term.
What has been the Trump administration's reaction to Musk's proposals?
The Trump administration, through its trade advisor Peter Navarro, dismissed Musk's criticisms. Navarro suggested that Musk is safeguarding his own business interests due to his reliance on parts from countries like China and Mexico.
How has the European Union responded to Trump's tariff policies?
The European Union has proposed a "zero for zero" tariff deal with the United States. However, it is prepared to implement countermeasures if there is no progress in the negotiations, reflecting its readiness to defend its interests against the unilateral measures of the U.S.
What impact have Trump's tariff policies had on the technology sector?
Trump's tariff policies have resulted in stock market losses exceeding one trillion dollars in the technology sector. Companies like those of Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Tim Cook have seen their supply chains and markets affected, leading to a decline in investor confidence.
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