Foreign Trade Faces Perceived Burden According to SUSESIG due to U.S. Customs Policy
In the face of ongoing global trade disruptions, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, a region deeply integrated into EU and international supply chains, is navigating the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs.
Recent data from the Statistical Office of the State suggests a decline in exports, with the industry contributing about a third of all exports. However, the first quarter of 2025 shows a potential trend reversal, with exports valued at around 2.4 billion euros, about 3% above the previous year's level.
The manufacturing industry has seen an increase in exports during this period, a positive sign for a region heavily reliant on export-oriented industries. This optimistic outlook was shared by Minister President Manuela Schwesig, who made her statement on the occasion of the 5th Export Evening of the state government.
Schwesig expressed concern about the impacts of U.S. trade policies on global trade and economic development. She emphasized that free trade strengthens the global economy and contributes to prosperity. Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, she stated, stands for an economic policy that connects rather than divides.
The U.S. tariffs, which have hit major trading partners like Switzerland (39%), India (up to 50%), and threatened 100% tariffs on critical sectors like computer chips, have disrupted global trade patterns and encouraged protective responses. These tariffs have sparked global trade uncertainty, contributing to inflationary pressures and supply chain shifts.
In reaction, the EU and other major non-U.S. economies are accelerating efforts to diversify and deepen trade relations without the U.S. This includes potential trade liberalization within blocs like the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the pursuit of new trade deals with key partners including Mexico, Mercosur, the UK, UAE, and potentially India.
Schwesig, aligned with EU trade policies, would likely emphasize the importance of multilateral cooperation, trade rule-based systems, and prevailing against protectionism to secure the region’s economic interests. She announced the German-Latvian Economic Day in Rostock for September 26, and the Baltic Sea Business Day in April 2026, with the participation of Poland and the Scandinavian and Baltic coastal countries, as steps towards this goal.
The state government supports export-oriented companies financially, including for trade fair appearances. Schwesig stated that export-oriented companies need reliable framework conditions and an export policy that encourages and supports them.
In a world where trade policies are undergoing significant changes, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern remains committed to upholding fair and balanced trade, adhering to the principle that trade should be fair and adhered to by all parties involved.
- The manufacturing industry's increased exports, as shown in the first quarter of 2025, is a positive sign for a region like Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, which is deeply rooted in export-oriented businesses.
- Minister President Manuela Schwesig, in her statement during the 5th Export Evening of the state government, expressed her concern about the impacts of U.S. trade policies on global trade and economic development, advocating for free trade and economic policies that connect rather than divide.
- In an effort to secure the region’s economic interests, Schwesig, aligned with EU trade policies, would likely emphasize the importance of multilateral cooperation, trade rule-based systems, and striving against protectionism, as seen in her announcement of the German-Latvian Economic Day in Rostock and the Baltic Sea Business Day.
