记者手记丨慕尼黑车展上的美国关税“寒流”

Core Viewpoint - The Munich Auto Show highlights the significant impact of U.S. tariffs on the German automotive industry, creating a sense of unease among exhibitors despite the event's celebratory atmosphere [1][4]. Group 1: Impact of Tariffs - U.S. tariffs have caused substantial losses for the German automotive industry, with the president of the German Automotive Industry Association stating that European competitiveness is under immense pressure [1]. - The tariffs disrupt established global supply networks, as highlighted by the Vice President of a major German auto parts supplier, who expressed dissatisfaction with the tariffs' impact on their operations [1][2]. - A recent survey indicated that over half of the German companies directly engaged in business with the U.S. plan to reduce trade, and a quarter will pause or cancel investments in the U.S. due to the tariffs [2]. Group 2: Financial Consequences - In April and May, following the implementation of new tariffs, German exports of new cars to the U.S. plummeted by 23.5% year-on-year, with major automakers like BMW and Volkswagen reporting profit declines of approximately 30% [3]. - Mercedes-Benz's net profit halved to €2.7 billion, with all three major automakers citing "significant additional costs" due to U.S. tariffs in their financial reports [3]. Group 3: Industry Sentiment and Future Uncertainty - The sentiment among German automotive suppliers is overwhelmingly negative, with many describing the tariffs as an unbearable burden that ultimately affects consumers through increased prices [2][3]. - Economic experts warn that high tariffs could lead to a more severe and hidden consequence: rising unit costs due to decreased production and inability to spread fixed costs, further eroding competitiveness [3]. - Uncertainty regarding future developments related to tariffs has become a common theme among exhibitors at the auto show, indicating a lack of clarity in the industry's outlook [3].