US auto tariffs

How foreign leaders and officials are reacting to US auto tariffs

From CNN's David Goldman, Paula Newton, Max Saltman, Junko Ogura and Anna Cooban

After President Donald Trump signed an executive action authorizing 25% tariffs on cars and car parts imported to the US, leaders from foreign countries likely to be hit hardest by the taxes shared sharp public criticism.

Here’s what foreign leaders and officials have been saying:

Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney said the tariffs was a “direct attack” in violation of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement and that Ottawa would examine its options for a response — including possible retaliatory tariffs. Canada’s Cabinet Committee on Canada-US Relations convened a meeting this morning to discuss its options.

Mexico: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said she would offer a “comprehensive response” to the tariffs on April 3, but signaled that her government is working behind the scenes to remove or reduce fees on certain Mexican-assembled autos and parts.

Japan: Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Tokyo would consider “all options” in response to the tariffs.

“We are strongly requesting that this 25% not be applied to Japan,” Ishiba said. “Japan invests in the United States, creating jobs and paying the highest wages.”

South Korea: Auto companies are expected to experience considerable difficulties due to the tariffs on cars and auto parts, trade minister Ahn Duk-geun said. Ahn held an emergency response meeting with representatives from automobile companies, industry associations and research institutions to discuss the tariffs.

On Tuesday, Hyundai committed to investing $21 billion in the US over the next three years. The investment would focus on expanding its manufacturing capabilities.

European Commission: President Ursula von der Leyen said tariffs would hurt Americans, though she didn’t promise any retaliation. The EU had announced retaliatory tariffs in response to steel and aluminum tariffs Trump levied this month but postponed them in hopes of a negotiated agreement.

China: Unlike its Asian rivals, China’s car industry is largely insulated from this round of tariffs. The Biden administration increased tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles to 100%, which has effectively shut them out of the market. Nonetheless, foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused the US of violating World Trade Organization rules by imposing the auto tariffs.

The United Kingdom is not planning imminent retaliatory tariffs on car imports from the US, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves said. The US is the second-largest market for UK car exports after the European Union, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.