Facing new U.S. tariffs, Spain is seeking a unified response to protect its economy. This article explores the Spanish government’s strategy, including meetings with various political groups, to address the economic challenges posed by the tariffs and ensure the best outcomes for the nation. Learn how Spain is navigating these difficult economic times and the internal political dynamics at play in its reaction to the tariffs.
Spain Responds to U.S. Tariffs: A United Front?
Minister of Economy Initiates Talks
carlos Cuerpo, the Minister of Economy, Commerce and Business, is engaging in a series of discussions with parliamentary group spokespersons. This follows the tariff announcement made by U.S. President Donald Trump.
- Initial Meetings: Gabriel Rufián (ERC), Verónica Martínez (Sumar), Maribel Vaquero and Idoia Sagastizaba (PNV), Miriam Nogueras (Junts), Néstor Rego (BNG), and Cristina Valido (coalición Canaria).
- Future Discussions: meetings are scheduled to continue on Monday with other groups.
- Exclusion: cuerpo does not plan to meet with Vox, due to what the government calls a “sanitary cord” established because of the party’s support for President Trump’s policies.
Sánchez Calls for Unity
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that the Minister of Economy would begin a round of meetings with all parliamentary groups in the lower house after the tariffs imposed by the U.S. became known.
“It is essential that in this issue ther are no imposed divisions or
political calculation. If we want to overcome this challenge we have to go to one in Spain and in Europe defending what our chief.”Pedro Sánchez, president of the Government
Sánchez emphasized the need for support from all parties to address the crisis. He warned that Trump’s tariff policies do not discriminate.
Trump does not distinguish between friends and enemiesnor discriminates by ideology butgoes against everyone and against everythingand thereforethere must be unity to face.
He also acknowledged that some measures will require a vote in the Congress of Deputies.
PP’s Response: “Superficial”
The first meeting occurred with the PP. Cuerpo, who is scheduled to appear at Congress on Wednesday the 9th, met with Juan Bravo, the Deputy Secretary of Economy of the Popular Party, at the Ministry of economy. Paloma Martín, the Vice-Secretary of Lasting Growth, and Francisco Conde, the spokesman for industry in Congress, also attended.
Cuerpo described the meeting with Bravo as “very cordial” and noted that both parties share “a very similar vision” regarding the origin of the conflict and the need to support the productive sector.
“We have to have a constant and permanent dialog with the groups but also with the territories, as we are aware that this impact will not be symmetrical in all territories.”
Moncloa highlighted the “constructive position” and “reasonable” approach of PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo.
Though, the PP characterized the meeting as “Cortés in the forms” but “superficial in the background,” adding that the government lacks “a specific plan” to react to the tariffs, despite prior warnings.
“They could anticipate but have not done it.”
