German Economy and Climate Minister Robert Herbeck (Photo/Agent)
BERLIN – Germany’s Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Robert Habeck warned that Germany is prepared to impose retaliatory tariffs if the United States moves ahead with new import duties on German goods.
Speaking at the Handelsblatt Energy Summit in Berlin on Tuesday, Habeck emphasized the need for an independent approach to U.S. trade relations under President Donald Trump.
Habeck said Germany should approach the new U.S. government with an “outstretched hand” but not allow it to be “knocked out indefinitely.” “We should not crawl into obedience,” he added.
Habeck outlined Germany’s preparations for potential tariff measures, noting that Germany is fully aware of the necessary measures if such measures become necessary. “We do not want to take such a step because it would damage our bilateral relations and threaten our economic prosperity,” he said.
Now in his second term, President Trump is rethinking global trade relations and increasing pressure on major trading partners. Although threats have been made to impose new tariffs, no formal measures have yet been introduced.
Habeck, who is also Germany’s climate minister, used the opportunity to address the broader implications of President Trump’s climate policies. He criticized the US’ withdrawal from the Paris climate accord during the Trump administration’s first term, calling it “fatal” to tackling global climate change.
Habeck called on Germany and Europe to continue to show leadership in developing low-carbon energy technologies, despite the challenges posed by the US government.
