Slovakia seeks EU aid for automotive industry in response to US tariff threats

On March 27, 2025, Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico addressed the potential negative impacts of new U.S. tariffs on car imports, warning that the automotive sector in Slovakia would be particularly affected. In light of these threats, Fico stated that his government would prioritize seeking assistance from the European Union rather than focusing on increased armament. This emphasis on automotive support stems from Slovakia's heavy reliance on the car industry, which significantly contributes to its economy and employment levels. The potential implementation of 25% tariffs on car imports by the U.S. was a central concern in Fico's discussions. In a follow-up statement on March 31, Fico reiterated that the tariffs would burden all EU member states but would hit Slovakia's automotive sector the hardest. He highlighted that companies like Volkswagen and Jaguar Land Rover would face new operational challenges due to the tariffs. Fico expressed his government's commitment to collaborate with these manufacturers to devise strategies that could mitigate the negative consequences of the U.S. customs policy. The goal is to present these proposals to the European Commission, advocating for a unified European response to counteract the tariffs. The Slovak government is not only concerned about immediate economic implications; they are also focused on the long-term health of the automotive industry. Opposition parties have raised concerns about job security for factory workers in Slovakia, emphasizing that proactive measures must be taken to preserve both jobs and investments in the sector. There have been calls for Slovakia to leverage its position within the EU to negotiate better trade relations with the U.S. and protect its industrial interests. Overall, Fico's government is navigating a complex landscape of international trade tensions, particularly with the impending U.S. tariffs. The Slovak automotive industry is positioned as the backbone of the country's economy, and thus Fico's responses reflect an urgent need to safeguard it. Slovakia aims to safeguard jobs and maintain economic stability by aligning with EU efforts to address these challenges, indicating a collective European priority over individual nation-state responses. Consequently, the Slovak government will await proposals from local car manufacturers before engaging with EU authorities, suggesting a collaborative approach in attempting to alleviate the concerns posed by the looming tariffs. This proactive stance could be pivotal in determining how Slovakia emerges from the impending trade challenges effectively.