Finance

EU trade deal will take a toll on German economy, minister says

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on July 30, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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EU trade deal will take a toll on German economy, minister says
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BERLIN (Reuters) -German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil is dissatisfied with the European Union's trade deal with the United States, as he thinks it will take a toll on Germany' economic growth, he

German Finance Minister Warns EU Trade Deal May Hurt Economy

BERLIN (Reuters) -German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil is dissatisfied with the European Union's trade deal with the United States, as he thinks it will take a toll on Germany' economic growth, he said on Wednesday.

"I have no illusions about it, it is rather growth-weakening," Klingbeil said in the presentation of the 2026 draft budget, lamenting that the EU was "too weak" in the negotiations.

The U.S. struck a framework trade agreement with the EU on Sunday, imposing a 15% import tariff on most EU goods.

"I would have wished for a different outcome," Klingbeil said. "Still, all in all, it is good that there is an agreement with the U.S., that there are no further escalations."

(Reporting by Maria Martinez, Editing by Rachel More)

Key Takeaways

  • German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil criticizes the EU-US trade deal.
  • The deal includes a 15% import tariff on most EU goods.
  • Klingbeil believes the deal will weaken Germany's economic growth.
  • The EU was perceived as weak in the trade negotiations.
  • Despite concerns, Klingbeil acknowledges the benefit of having an agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lars Klingbeil's opinion on the EU trade deal?
Lars Klingbeil is dissatisfied with the EU's trade deal with the US, believing it will negatively impact Germany's economic growth.
What specific tariff was imposed by the US on EU goods?
The US imposed a 15% import tariff on most EU goods as part of the trade agreement.
What did Klingbeil express about the negotiation outcomes?
Klingbeil lamented that the EU was 'too weak' in the negotiations and wished for a different outcome.
What is the overall sentiment about the trade agreement?
Despite his concerns, Klingbeil acknowledged that having an agreement with the US is better than facing further escalations.
What was presented alongside Klingbeil's comments on the trade deal?
Klingbeil made these comments during the presentation of the 2026 draft budget.

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