Trump’s car import move criticized

WASHINGTON — The White House announcement Friday that President Donald Trump has set a 180-day clock ticking on possible trade action against imports of cars and car parts from Japan and Europe brought strong pushback from the private sector.

The president's implied threat to use Section 232 authorities to impose tariffs or other trade measures if negotiations to limit imports are not successful cited national security and, in particular, the need to protect research and development by U.S. automakers.

The administration's effort to use the national security authority of Section 232 brought immediate criticism from business groups and renewed criticism that Trump has overreached in his use of trade safeguards to attack imports.

"The importation of passenger cars and auto parts is not a threat to national security," Neil Bradley, executive vice president at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said in a prepared statement. "This is a misuse of the administration's trade authorities. The continued threat of tariffs on cars and auto parts only creates more uncertainty weakening our economy."

Global Automakers, a trade group representing foreign car manufacturers, released a statement Thursday anticipating the administration action and warning it could have serious consequences.

"No automaker or auto parts supplier asked for this 'protection.' We are headed down a dangerous and destructive course and strongly urge that the Administration not impose tariffs or quotas," said John Bozzella, president of Global Automakers.

The White House announcement also drew pushback from both Congress and the European Union.

"We note that US postpones decision on car tariffs for 180 days," Cecilia Malmstrom, EU trade commissioner, said in a tweet Friday. "But we completely reject the notion that our car exports are a national security threat. The EU is prepared to negotiate a limited trade agreement including cars, but not WTO-illegal managed trade."

Senate Finance Chairman Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, one of several Republicans who have questioned the administration's use of tariffs to pressure trading partners, also weighed in.