At the American Chamber of Commerce in Slovenia – AmCham Slovenia, we oppose the decision of U.S. President Donald J. Trump to introduce a package of so-called reciprocal tariffs. We emphasize the importance of open dialogue and cooperation, as unilateral and protectionist measures pose a serious risk to the predictability of the global business environment and, in the long term, harm all stakeholders – including the U.S. economy and households. 

The plan includes a base 10% tariff on all imports, with significantly higher rates for certain countries – 34% for China, 20% for the European Union, 46% for Vietnam, and 32% for Taiwan. A 25% tariff on car imports has also been announced. 

The economic partnership between the U.S. and Europe reached record levels in 2024. Together, we represent nearly one-third of the global GDP; this partnership directly supports more than 16 million jobs and over USD 7.5 trillion in goods and services trade. 

The introduction of tariffs directly threatens the competitiveness, stability, and predictability of the business environment. Small and medium-sized enterprises are the most vulnerable, as they will face higher costs, reduced investment activity, and more challenging strategic planning. Disruptions in supply chains may affect the quality and availability of end products for consumers, while protectionist measures may stifle innovation and international industrial cooperation. 

Ajša Vodnik, MSc, CEO of AmCham Slovenia, warned: “These new tariffs, along with possible EU countermeasures, could lead to a situation between two of the most important trade and investment partners that would be harmful to both sides – particularly to the economy and people’s well-fare. We hope that, based on the facts about how important and integrated the transatlantic partnership truly is, the U.S. and EU will avoid further escalation and instead prioritize creating the conditions for negotiations and the pursuit of shared interests.” 

Constructive engagement and cooperation with the business community will be essential in identifying practical solutions that benefit both sides. The business sector recognizes how important it is that the EU and U.S. reach an agreement that preserves the benefits of transatlantic trade and investment, rather than imposing new barriers. 

AmCham Slovenia remains firmly committed to finding solutions, building community , and representing the interests of our members with a clear goal – to shape a shared future based on partnership, trust, and sustainable economic growth. 

In response to the current situation and the needs of our member companies, AmCham Slovenia last week launched the USA Navigator platform – designed to support companies in Slovenia that seek to enter, expand, or invest in the U.S. market. We also established the USA-Slovenia Business CoLab, a working group connecting U.S. companies operating in Slovenia, aimed at sharing best practices, engaging with the local environment, and finding concrete solutions for joint development and long-term growth. 

We will also host a USA MeetUp for our members on April 15, 2025, titled “The U.S. Market and Tariffs: You Ask, the Expert Answers,” where members will have the opportunity to engage directly with Steve Staresinic, Certified Public Accountant/Chartered Global Management Accountant and international business consultant. We invite companies and the professional public to join us in an open discussion on the future of the transatlantic partnership.