Dirk Jandura, President of the German Retail Federation (BGA), has urged the European Union to maintain a measured approach in its trade dispute with the United States. Speaking to the Bayern media group, Jandura suggested that criticism from Chancellor Olaf Scholz regarding the EU’s negotiation strategy with the US reflects a growing apprehension ahead of July 9th, the deadline for a temporary suspension of planned US tariffs.
Despite this, Jandura expressed strong praise for the EU’s negotiating team. He stated that the EU has consistently pursued a factual and strategically astute course, effectively uniting the interests of its member states while negotiating with the US on an equal footing – all without escalating the conflict. “Brussels should stick to its course, not allow itself to become nervous and also refer to services, in which the EU has a deficit with the US. I think the EU is doing a good job” Jandura commented.
Jandura also noted that Germany’s foreign trade is hopeful that the new German government will demonstrate a better understanding of free trade agreements. He expressed a desire that such agreements would not be misused in Brussels to advance other political objectives.
While cautioning against underestimating the significance of the US, Jandura also advised against overstating its importance. He acknowledged that a failure to reach constructive solutions with the US would undoubtedly have negative consequences, but emphasized the need for a calm and rational perspective. “If good solutions are not found with the US, that would certainly have very negative effects. But it is not the end of the world. We should keep a cool head”.