Macron Urges French Firms to Halt US Investments Over Tariffs

French President Emmanuel Macron has called on French companies to temporarily suspend investment projects in the United States in response to President Donald Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on European Union imports.

Speaking at the Elysee Palace on Thursday during a meeting with representatives from industries affected by the tariffs, Macron stressed the need for clarity before proceeding with further transatlantic investments.

The move follows Trump’s announcement of sweeping tariffs on multiple countries, including EU member states. Under the new policy, imports from the EU will be subjected to a 20% surcharge, while other regions will face a minimum 10% duty.

“What is important is that future investments, or those announced in recent weeks, be temporarily suspended until we have clarified things with the United States of America,” Macron stated.

He cautioned that European businesses continuing to invest in the US while facing restrictive trade measures would send the wrong signal.

“What message would it send if major European players started investing billions of euros in the American economy at a time when they are ‘hitting’ us?” he questioned.

Macron condemned the tariffs as “brutal and unfounded,” warning of their “massive impact” on the European economy. He urged EU nations to maintain a united front rather than seeking individual exemptions from Washington.

Emphasizing solidarity, Macron discouraged any attempts by European nations to negotiate separate deals with the US, arguing that a collective approach was the only viable response to the crisis.

He also predicted that, in the long run, such protectionist policies would harm the US economy.

“Americans will emerge weaker and poorer,” he warned, expressing confidence that the EU’s resilience and economic strength would enable it to navigate the trade tensions effectively.

The French government is expected to hold further discussions with EU leaders to determine a coordinated response to the new US tariffs.