A prominent faction within the German Social Democratic Party (SPD), known as the Seeheimer Kreis, is calling for a re-evaluation of the European Union’s trade relationship with the United States, particularly in light of past negotiations under the Trump administration. A newly released policy paper, dubbed the “Brussels Declaration” outlines a series of recommendations across economic, legal, digital and defense sectors.
The document emphasizes the need for the EU to “fine-tune the results of these negotiations in the short term and become aware of its own strength in the long term”. It argues that the EU must proactively safeguard its economic interests and avoid being subjected to unilateral pressure.
Daniel Walter, a member of the Bundestag and a key author of the paper, is urging the European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, to actively pursue adjustments to the trade agreement. He contends that successful negotiations with the U.S. require a position of strength and a firm defense of European interests.
Specific concerns are raised regarding the expansion of U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs, which have resulted in a significant increase – approximately 400 – in EU exports subject to higher tariff rates of 50%. This situation is identified as particularly damaging to the German mechanical engineering sector.
The “Brussels Declaration” highlights not only the financial burden of elevated tariffs, but also the escalating bureaucratic workload imposed on businesses forced to calculate the steel and aluminum content of individual products for customs purposes. The paper signals a drive for a more assertive European approach to trade negotiations with the United States.
