A significant internal disagreement has emerged within the German Green Party concerning the recently finalized customs agreement between the European Union and the United States. A detailed five-page document, reported by Handelsblatt, reveals deep concerns among several parliamentary group members and calls for a comprehensive response to mitigate potential economic repercussions.
The document, spearheaded by parliamentary group chair Katharina Dröge, her deputy Andreas Audretsch and spokespersons Sandra Detzer (economic policy) and Chantal Kopf (European policy), asserts that the agreement represents a detrimental outcome for the EU. It alleges that the Union’s acceptance of the deal sends a problematic signal, potentially leaving European businesses vulnerable and costing them billions.
The Green Party’s analysis places responsibility for the perceived shortcomings on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), accusing him of exerting pressure on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to prioritize a swift conclusion over a more beneficial outcome.
To counteract the anticipated economic impacts, the Greens are advocating for a new trade policy alliance. This alliance would, according to the document, serve as a countermeasure against a strong stance from the United States, uniting nations committed to international cooperation, robust regulations and equitable global trade practices.
The Trans-Pacific Partnership, a framework involving countries like Japan, Australia and Canada, is presented as a potential starting point. The Greens urge the EU to proactively initiate a new multilateral trade agreement, extending an invitation to all nations interested in participating. The aim is to foster a system built on shared principles and mutual benefit, rather than perceived pressure.