Tánaiste calls for EU-US trade talks after Trump announces more new tariffs
President Donald Trump gestures after speaking at a reception celebrating Women's History Month in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in Washington. Picture: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein
The Tánaiste has said the EU wants to "sit down" with the Trump administration to reach a trade agreement after the latest announcement regarding tariffs on cars and pharmaceuticals.
US President Donald Trump singled out Ireland as he pledged to impose tariffs on pharmaceutical imports to the US.
"We're going to be doing tariffs on pharmaceuticals in order to bring our pharmaceutical industry back," Mr Trump said in the Oval Office on Wednesday.
"We don't make anything here in terms of drugs, different types of drugs that you need, medicines, it's in other countries, largely made in China, a lot of it made in Ireland.
"Ireland was very smart, we love Ireland, but we're gonna have that."
Reacting to the latest tariff announcement, Simon Harris said: "Ireland continues to engage with colleagues across Europe and the United States on the issue of trade policy.
"We believe talks rather than tariffs is the sensible way to proceed."
During his speech, Mr Trump also announced a 25% tariff on all cars made outside the US.
The White House claims it will foster domestic manufacturing; however, it could also put a financial strain on car makers that depend on global supply chains.
“What we’re going to be doing is a 25% tariff for all cars that are not made in the United States,” Mr Trump said in the Oval Office.
“We start off with a 2.5% base, which is what we’re at, and go to 25%.” Mr Harris said he had spoken to US commerce secretary Lutnick earlier this week, and both men agreed to stay in touch.
"I also spoke to EU Trade Commissioner Šefcovič and I am in ongoing contact with him and his team. I have had conversations with many of my European counterparts."
Mr Harris added: "When I arrive back in Dublin from Lebanon today, I will be meeting senior officials to further take stock.
"The European Union wants to sit down with the US and reach agreement on a trade relationship that works for everyone because trade is good for jobs, growth and all our economies. This is what needs to happen.
"I welcome that there will also be a special EU Trade Council on the 7th April which I will represent Ireland at."
