Donald Trump has declared he “couldn’t care less” if automobile prices increase after implementing 25% tariffs on foreign-made vehicles.
While analysts warn these import charges could lead to temporary shutdowns of major US car production, price increases, and strained international relationships, Trump remains unmoved. In an NBC News interview Saturday, the US president stated he actually hopes foreign carmakers raise prices because then “people are gonna buy American-made cars. We have plenty.”
On Wednesday, Trump announced new 25% import taxes on cars and parts entering the US from overseas, effective April 2. Charges on imported vehicles are expected April 3, with taxes on parts beginning in May or later.
When questioned about his message to automobile executives, Trump responded: “The message is congratulations, if you make your car in the United States, you’re going to make a lot of money.” He added: “If you don’t, you’re going to have to probably come to the United States, because if you make your car in the United States, there is no tariff.”
The 25% import tax was briefly implemented then paused in early March following appeals from major North American automakers including Ford, General Motors and Stellantis.
Trump informed NBC he had no plans to further delay the tariffs, stating he would consider negotiation “only if people are willing to give us something of great value. Because countries have things of great value, otherwise, there’s no room for negotiation.”
These comments come as Downing Street sources indicate the UK would not hesitate to retaliate against US tariffs if necessary. The UK is engaged in last-minute negotiations with the White House, seeking an exemption by arguing that—unlike other countries—Britain has a relatively balanced trading relationship with the US. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has stated he doesn’t want to initiate a trade war.
Several major economies have vowed to respond to Trump’s tariffs. Germany has stated it “will not give in” and that Europe must “respond firmly,” while France’s president called the move “a waste of time” and “incoherent.” Canada described it as a “direct attack,” and China accused Washington of violating international trade rules.
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