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On Wednesday, 11 March, the United States Trade Representative launched Section 301 investigations into structural production overcapacity against a range of economies, including the European Union.  We understand that this decision is part of a larger attempt to stabilise the US tariff system in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling striking down the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs. 

The American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (AmCham EU) is concerned about the continued uncertainty of the current trade environment. Companies still lack clarity over future tariff rates in both the short- and long-term. We continue to oppose broad-based tariffs as they raise costs for businesses and consumers and disrupt supply chains. 

With potential measures against the EU under consideration, AmCham EU calls on the EU and the US to avoid escalation in the trade dispute. The priority must be to restore stability and predictability in transatlantic trade. The deal struck in the summer is not a perfect solution, but it offers the most realistic path forward given political priorities on both sides. We look to the parties to honour their commitments under the EU-US Framework Agreement. 

The US Administration rightfully identifies overcapacity as a critical issue in the global economy which also affects the European market. We see the EU as part of the solution, rather than the problem. The EU and the US must work together to tackle the real issue at hand: unfair trading practices from non-market economies.  

Business associations have expressed full support for the European Commission’s decision to provisionally apply the EU–Mercosur Interim Trade Agreement. The move marks a decisive step towards implementation after more than 25 years of negotiations. The economic case is compelling. The European Commission estimates indicate that, once fully implemented, the Agreement could increase EU exports to Mercosur by nearly 40%, generating €48.7 billion in additional annual exports and €77.6 billion in annual EU GDP gains by 2040. At the same time, prolonged delays have carried significant costs for European competitiveness. Swift operationalisation of the Agreement will enhance market access, diversify trade relationships and reinforce the EU’s leadership in sustainable, rules-based trade.

On Tuesday, 17 February, AmCham EU met with Caleb Orr, US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs, to exchange views on transatlantic economic priorities. Malte Lohan, CEO, opened the discussion by highlighting the importance of a strong and predictable business environment for US companies operating in the EU. The exchange focused on regulatory and investment conditions affecting international business, as well as the broader EU-US trade relationship and the value of continued economic cooperation. Participants also discussed cooperation on critical mineral supply chains, underlining the importance of coordinated transatlantic efforts to strengthen economic security, resilience and competitiveness.