Core Points - Tesla and SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, have submitted letters to the U.S. trade representative regarding tariff policies under the Trump administration [1][2] - The letters express concerns over retaliatory tariffs imposed by China and Canada, which Tesla views as a threat to its profitability [2] - SpaceX highlights regulatory complexities and trade barriers it faces globally, urging the U.S. government to address these issues to maintain U.S. leadership in the space sector [3] Tesla - Tesla's letter emphasizes the need for the U.S. Trade Representative to consider the downstream impacts of proposed trade actions on U.S. exports [2] - The company acknowledges the importance of fair trade but stresses that assessments should also factor in the effects on U.S. exports [2] SpaceX - SpaceX's letter outlines the significant costs incurred due to import duties and fees in foreign markets, which increase operational costs for its Starlink satellite internet service [3] - The company argues that these import duties create a disadvantage for U.S. companies compared to foreign products imported into the U.S. [3][4]

Core Viewpoint - Tesla expresses concerns about potential retaliatory tariffs from U.S. trading partners due to President Trump's trade policies, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the impacts on U.S. exporters [1][5][7]. Group 1: Trade Policy Concerns - Tesla supports a thorough process by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to address unfair trade practices while ensuring that U.S. companies are not harmed [1][4]. - The company highlights that U.S. exporters face disproportionate impacts from retaliatory tariffs, which have historically led to increased costs and reduced competitiveness in international markets [5][7]. Group 2: Supply Chain Implications - Tesla notes that while it has a significant domestic supply chain, certain auto parts are not available in the U.S., which complicates manufacturing and threatens American jobs [9][10]. - The company advocates for USTR to evaluate domestic supply chain limitations to prevent undue burdens from trade actions that could impose high tariffs on essential components [11]. Group 3: Implementation Timeline - Tesla suggests that a phased approach to implementing trade actions would benefit U.S. companies by allowing them to prepare and adjust their supply chains accordingly [11].