Volkswagen eyes transatlantic shift amid US tariff tensions
The turmoil surrounding tariffs has led the German corporation to plan moving part of its business across the Atlantic. Volkswagen's CEO, Oliver Blume, held discussions with American authorities. He described these talks as "fair and constructive."
The increase in US tariffs on products imported from Europe has prompted many European manufacturers to consider relocating part of their production to the USA. Volkswagen is one such company. The Germans have just announced significant investments across the Atlantic.
According to "Reuters," German car manufacturers, including Volkswagen, have been in talks with Washington about a possible tariff agreement, attempting to leverage their US investments and exports to mitigate the impact.
The head of the corporation, Oliver Blume, stated that Volkswagen's main contact in Washington is the US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick. He added that he has agreed to keep all details of the discussions confidential.
Unofficially, it is suggested that existing Volkswagen factories in the USA could be joined by Audi production facilities, allowing the Ingolstadt brand to avoid higher tariff rates.
Blume, as quoted by "Reuters," said that the Volkswagen Group already employs over 20,000 people directly and over 55,000 indirectly in the United States and highlighted an investment of approximately $5.8 (€5.1) billion in the American company Rivian.
Such investments should be taken into consideration when making decisions about tariffs, Blume added, expressing hope that Brussels and Washington will reach a comprehensive agreement for all industries.
