French President Emmanuel Macron has called for European companies to suspend planned investments in the United States following the announcement of sweeping tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump. Macron made the comments on April 3, 2025, during a meeting with French industry representatives at the Elysee Palace. He emphasized that until the situation with the U.S. is clarified, investments either scheduled or recently announced should be put on hold.
This call came shortly after French companies like CMA CGM and Schneider Electric had announced significant investments in the U.S. Earlier, CMA CGM had revealed plans to invest $20 billion in U.S. shipping infrastructure, while Schneider Electric had pledged $700 million to support U.S. energy infrastructure. Both companies had been hailed by President Trump for their plans before the tariffs were introduced.
Macron also suggested that the European Union might use its anti-coercion mechanism, which protects the bloc’s trade interests, in response to the U.S. tariffs. He further hinted at potential retaliatory actions targeting U.S. digital services and financial mechanisms. The French president’s remarks indicate that Europe might adopt a stronger response than its earlier retaliation against U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs.
Calling the new tariffs “brutal and unfounded,” Macron expressed his belief that the global trade order had been shaken. He urged Europe to retaliate strategically, tackling the issue “industry by industry.” The dispute represents an escalating trade tension between the U.S. and Europe, with significant implications for international business relations.
Source: Reuters