EU Carmakers Push for Tariff Relief in Closing U.S. Trade Talks

European carmakers and several EU capitals are pressing negotiators in Brussels and Washington to include tariff relief for autos in the trans-Atlantic trade package that officials say is nearing completion. Industry representatives are floating a compromise under which manufacturers would commit to expanding production and investment in U.S. facilities in return for lower import duties, according to people briefed on the talks. The move reflects automakers’ efforts to mitigate higher costs triggered by recent tariff escalations and to preserve their share of the crucial U.S. market. Diplomats cautioned that any concession on duties must still be cleared by the White House and secure backing from all 27 EU member states.