Economic Minister Han wants sober decisions upon the adoption of European customs countermeasures

Bled – Slovenia was among the EU member states that supported the introduction of countermeasures in response to tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to the U.S. on Wednesday. The EU will gradually impose additional tariffs of up to 25% on U.S. goods worth around 20 billion euros. The Minister of Economy, Tourism and Sports Matjaž Han expects additional measures with a delayed implementation, believing that a certain agreement must be reached during this time, as “the madness of these trade wars” will bury both Europe and the U.S.

Minister Han expressed hope on Wednesday in Bled regarding the decision of EU member states that U.S. President Donald Trump will also realize that this direction is not good for the economy. When asked what the events of the past days and weeks mean for Slovenia, he replied that the ministry, with the help of the Chamber of Commerce and the economy, regularly conducts analyses regarding the effects.

For Slovenia at this moment, Han stated, “there is not such a catastrophe,” but he pointed out the indirect effects due to the role of the Slovenian automotive industry in the supply chains of European car manufacturers. Overall, Han assesses the current situation as very bad for the global economy and sees no real reason why some, amid all the problems this world already has, are further exacerbating the situation at this moment. It is necessary to be sober and make smart decisions based on analyses, the minister is convinced. (April 9)