VW boss Blume: New investments in the USA in sight!

VW boss Blume: New investments in the USA in sight!

Volkswagen is actively looking for solutions to the customs dispute with the US government. CEO Oliver Blume announced in an interview with the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” that the company is offering the US government the prospect of further investments. This happens as part of negotiations that are regularly held with the US Secretary of Commerce and even the US President. While the talks are described as fair and constructive, they concern the current tariffs of 25 percent on car deliveries to the USA since April 2023. This puts VW in a challenging situation as the company plays a significant role in the US.

Volkswagen currently employs over 20,000 people directly in the United States and also creates more than 55,000 indirect jobs. In addition to cars, VW also produces school buses and trucks in the USA. The company also works with the American manufacturer Rivian in an important economic partnership.

Negotiations and investments

In the ongoing negotiations, Blume emphasizes that VW is ready to offer further investments in the USA in return for an agreement on tariffs. He also calls for better conditions for companies operating in the United States. These aspects were also discussed in discussions with the US President in order to find a constructive solution.

The tense traffic situation and export conditions pose challenges for German automobile manufacturers. VW is not the only company trying to improve conditions for importing and exporting vehicles as the governments of both countries continue to negotiate further trade issues.

Political developments in the background

In parallel with the trade negotiations, the US government's political agenda has also evolved. For example, Donald Trump is planning to nominate Emil Bove for the position of federal appeals judge. Bove has previously been involved in controversial legal matters, including representing Trump in a case against porn actress Stormy Daniels. These political developments could have an impact on the economic environment and the outcome of negotiations.

There are also efforts to tighten visa requirements for Chinese students. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the criteria for applicants from China and Hong Kong will be revised, potentially leading to a decline in the number of Chinese students at U.S. universities. The relevance of these changes to trade relations and industry is being closely monitored by many experts.

Overall, the situation is dynamic. While Volkswagen is focused on investing in the US and is in positive discussions with the US government, it remains to be seen how political changes and tariff policies will affect trade relations. To find out more about current developments, see the reports from ORF and t online helpful.