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Former President Donald Trump has expressed indifference regarding potential price increases by international automakers stemming from his recent announcement of a 25% tariff on all foreign-made auto parts and imported vehicles. Trump stated that he “couldn’t care less” about the implications of these tariffs for car prices.
This tariff initiative has drawn sharp criticism from foreign automotive companies and political leaders alike, resulting in a decline in stock prices for major automakers such as General Motors and Ford, as reported by the Associated Press. The American Automotive Policy Council, representing U.S. automakers, emphasized the importance of implementing tariffs in a manner that does not inflate consumer prices and maintains the competitiveness of the North American automotive industry.
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In an extensive conversation with NBC News, Trump conveyed a clear message: “If you manufacture your car in the United States, you’re going to profit significantly. If not, you may need to reconsider, because there will be no tariffs on American-made cars.”
When queried about whether he had spoken to U.S. auto industry executives about not increasing prices, as suggested by The Wall Street Journal, Trump firmly replied, “No, I never said that. I couldn’t care less if they raise prices because consumers will start purchasing American-made cars. I welcome higher prices, as it would encourage consumers to buy domestic vehicles.”
He reiterated, “I truly couldn’t care less, as rising prices on foreign vehicles will lead consumers to choose American alternatives.”
It is worth noting that while foreign auto parts assembled in the U.S. will incur the 25% tariff, vehicles imported under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will remain exempt from tariffs until a new process is enacted, as stated by the White House.
When asked about the potential for negotiation regarding the anticipated tariffs set to begin on April 2, Trump made it clear: “Only if countries are prepared to offer something of significant value. If they do not, then negotiations are off the table.”
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