Xin Hua Cai Jing·2025-09-25 07:35Core Points - The U.S. government has officially implemented a trade agreement with the EU, confirming a 15% tariff on EU automobiles and parts effective from August 1 [1] - The European automotive industry is facing significant challenges, with major manufacturers reporting profit declines or losses due to U.S. tariff policies [1][2] - The new tariff rate is substantially higher than the previous 2.5%, exacerbating the financial strain on European carmakers [1][2] Summary by Category Trade Policy Impact - The U.S. has announced a 15% tariff on EU automotive exports, which is a significant increase from the previous 2.5% rate [1] - Tariff exemptions have been granted for certain EU exports, including softwood and pharmaceuticals [1] Financial Performance of European Automakers - Major European automakers are experiencing a "complete collapse" in profits, with Volkswagen's net profit for the first half of 2025 dropping to €4.005 billion, a 37% decrease [1] - BMW reported a net profit of €4.015 billion, down 29% year-on-year, while Stellantis shifted from a profit of €5.6 billion to a loss of €2.256 billion due to delayed model development [1] Future Outlook - European car manufacturers are revising their earnings forecasts downward, with Volkswagen lowering its operating profit margin expectations from 5.5%-6.5% to 4%-5% [1] - Experts predict that the trend of declining earnings may worsen in the latter half of 2025 [1]