Trump gives Big 3 automakers a 30-day reprieve on tariffs : NPR

President Trump granted Ford, General Motors and Stellantis a one-month reprieve from the import tariffs he imposed on Canada and Mexico — avoiding major disruption of the North American auto industry but underscoring the fickle nature of U.S. trade policy in the Trump era.

The president granted the tariff relief after the Big Three automakers complained that the import taxes that kicked on Tuesday would make them less competitive with their European and Japanese rivals.

“The president is giving them an exemption for one month so they are not at an economic disadvantage,” said White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt. She stressed that “reciprocal tariffs” on imports from Europe and Asia are still set to take effect next month.

Over the last three decades, the Big Three automakers have developed highly integrated operations in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, with some vehicles crossing the border multiple times during assembly. The 25% tariff on imports from the United States’ northern and southern neighbors could jeopardize that system.

Trump wants the automakers to do more of their manufacturing in the United States.

“That’s the ultimate goal,” Leavitt said.

Not all get the tariff reprieve

The temporary tariff relief does not apply to foreign carmakers that build cars in North America using Mexican or Canadian parts. Economists say much of the cost of the tariffs is ultimately passed along to consumers.

The tariff relief also doesn’t extend to the many other products the U.S. imports from Canada and Mexico, including lumber, fresh produce, tequila and Canadian whisky.

Trump said he spoke by telephone Wednesday with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

“The call ended in a “somewhat” friendly manner, Trump said in a social media post.

Stocks rallied as investors hoped for additional tariff relief.