Sweden warns against new trade conflicts after US tariff hike

Sweden is calling for a de-escalation of trade tensions with the United States, as concerns grow over the potential impact on key export industries.

Sweden’s Minister for International Development and Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, said Stockholm aims to play a role in easing the current strain in transatlantic trade relations. Speaking in a comment to SVT, he emphasised that both sides must adhere to existing agreements in order to prevent further escalation.

“We do not want new trade conflicts, especially when they threaten such an important Swedish export sector as the automotive industry. If we have an agreement with the US, it must, of course, be respected by all parties. The worst thing Swedish companies know is unstable behaviour and unpredictability,” the minister said.

Dousa underlined that the European Union should act swiftly to meet its obligations under the agreement, adding that the United States is also expected to do the same.

The remarks come after US President Donald Trump announced a decision to raise tariffs on cars imported from the European Union to 25%. He justified the move by accusing Brussels of failing to comply with the terms of a trade agreement between the two sides.

The dispute has raised concerns in Sweden, where the automotive sector plays a significant role in exports, and where policymakers are seeking to avoid further disruption caused by escalating trade measures.

By Tamilla Hasanova