Elon Musk hopes for ‘zero-tariff situation’ between US and EU

Key Points

  • Elon Musk advocates for a zero-tariff trade zone between Europe and North America.
  • Musk criticizes Peter Navarro, a Trump administration official, for his economic policies and academic background.
  • Tesla sales in Europe and Italy have significantly declined, with a 49% drop in Europe and a 7% decrease in Italy in the first quarter.
  • Italian Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti seeks de-escalation in trade tensions with the U.S.

Summary

Elon Musk, speaking at a League party congress in Florence, Italy, expressed his desire for a zero-tariff trade agreement between Europe and the United States, aiming to foster a free-trade zone. His comments follow President Trump's announcement of 20% tariffs on EU goods, which Musk criticized, particularly targeting Peter Navarro, a key figure in the Trump administration's trade policy. Musk's critique extended to Navarro's economic credentials and his effectiveness in policy implementation. Concurrently, Tesla has faced a significant downturn in sales, with a 49% drop in Europe and a 7% decrease in Italy during the first quarter, amidst Musk's controversial involvement with Dogecoin. Italian Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti highlighted Italy's trade surplus with the U.S. and expressed hopes for reducing trade tensions. This comes at a time when Italy's economy saw only a modest growth of 0.5% in 2024.

CNN
April 5, 2025
Stocks
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