Giorgia Meloni is scheduled to visit Washington on April 16 to discuss former President Donald Trump’s tariffs. The date is now official. The priority is clear: negotiation. While Trump’s rhetoric remains combative, he has signaled openness to talks with Europe
Trump tariffs, Musk urges Biden to lift them. Meloni to visit White House on April 16
Giorgia Meloni is scheduled to visit Washington on April 16 to discuss former President Donald Trump’s tariffs. The date is now official. The priority is clear: negotiation. While Trump’s rhetoric remains combative, he has signaled openness to talks with Europe.
The usual accusations persist: Europeans don’t buy American cars or food products, and impose regulatory barriers that restrict U.S. exports. Even auto safety crash tests are said to be too demanding for U.S. vehicles to pass.
Trump tariffs: America first
“If we can make a deal that’s good for the United States, a deal that finally puts America First,” Trump said, “then we’ll make deals.” One sector stands out: energy. “They’ll have to buy our energy, because they need it. And the U.S. has more energy to sell than any other country in the world.” The goal from Trump’s camp is a full reset of trade relationships.
EU prepares countermeasures
Meanwhile, the European Union is getting ready. The 27 member states are pushing for a mutual zero-tariff agreement on industrial goods. But if no deal is reached, counter-tariffs will be rolled out in two phases: on April 15 and then a larger round on May 15.
According to ANSA, the new tariffs could reach up to 25%, with some categories facing only 10%. Brussels’ response targets six sectors: automotive, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, plastics, rubber, and machinery. For Italy, a middle-ground solution could involve “a 10% tariff reduction by the U.S.,” said Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
Musk sides with the EU against tariffs
The domestic picture is becoming increasingly complex. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has reportedly urged President Biden to ease the current stance and repeal tariffs imposed on nearly every country. The Washington Post cites “two people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity.”
Musk, who donated $290 million to support Trump’s return to the White House, appears to be at odds with the administration. His concern likely stems from the mounting challenges facing Tesla.
Tesla stock closed at $214 yesterday, hitting a 12-month low. Hours earlier, Musk posted a video on X featuring Nobel laureate economist Milton Friedman praising the benefits of global trade – a clear shot at the current policy.
Automakers back the EU Commission
European carmakers have also voiced strong support for reducing U.S. tariffs. They warn of broader consequences, particularly trade diversion risks.
The auto industry’s supply chain spans both sides of the Atlantic and plays a vital role in current business models. Heightened uncertainty could ripple through these networks, potentially disrupting both production and profits.
