How Trump's tariffs could force Germany out of its comfort zone

Whether they realise it or not, most people in the US have a little bit of Germany in their lives. They don’t need to sport Adidas sneakers or snack incessantly on those addictive Haribo Goldbears. Rather, they rely on a range of products that power everyday items, be it their cars or dishwashers.

That’s all getting shaken up. Europe’s most beloved US President - Donald Trump - has announced he’ll be slapping down 15 percent tariffs on all EU countries, potentially leaving a lasting dent in the Bundesrepublik’s highly export-driven economy and Americans with higher prices on German goods.

With Trump dangling the on-and-off threat of global tariffs since April, there’s already been a visible impact on Germany’s economy (not to mention a spike in “taco” memes, short for Trump Always Chickens Out, when the president doesn’t follow through).

German exports to the US dipped 3.9 percent in early 2025, with Commerzbank warning of a potential 20 to 25 percent decline in the next couple of years.