welt.de
Germany's Record Trade Surplus with US Exacerbates Trade Tensions
Germany reported a record €70 billion trade surplus with the United States in 2017, exacerbating existing trade tensions with the US, which recently imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum and is considering further tariffs on other goods.
- How might Germany's trade surplus with the US contribute to the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries?
- The €70 billion surplus adds to existing trade tensions between the US and Germany. President Trump has already threatened tariffs on goods from countries with large trade surpluses, and this new data is likely to exacerbate these tensions. The announcement comes shortly after the US imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports.
- What are the potential broader economic and geopolitical consequences of this trade surplus and President Trump's response?
- This trade surplus could escalate into a broader trade conflict between the US and Germany. Further retaliatory tariffs from either side are possible. The impact on global trade and the world economy remains uncertain but will likely be significant given both countries' economic influence.
- What is the significance of Germany's record €70 billion trade surplus with the US in the context of President Trump's trade policies?
- Germany recorded a record trade surplus of approximately €70 billion with the United States in 2017. This surplus is likely to further strain US-German relations, given President Trump's protectionist trade policies. Experts have noted the particularly poor timing of this announcement, given recent US tariff announcements.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the German trade surplus as a problem primarily for the US, highlighting Trump's negative reaction and potential retaliatory measures. The headline itself ('Das dürfte US-Präsident Donald Trump nicht gefallen') sets a negative tone and emphasizes Trump's perspective. The sequencing of information prioritizes Trump's response over a neutral presentation of the economic data. This framing could lead readers to view the surplus primarily through the lens of US interests.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, but phrases like 'zur Unzeit' (inopportune time) and descriptions of Trump's actions as 'aggressive' carry a slight negative connotation. While not overtly biased, these choices subtly shape the reader's perception. More neutral alternatives could include describing the timing as 'unfavorable' or 'unconvenient' and avoiding subjective assessments of Trump's actions.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Trump's reactions and potential retaliatory measures, but omits analysis of the broader economic context of the German trade surplus. It does not explore Germany's economic policies that may have contributed to the surplus, nor does it offer perspectives from German officials or economists. The impact of the surplus on the German economy is also not discussed. This omission limits the reader's understanding of the situation's complexities.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the situation as solely a conflict between the US and Germany, neglecting the complexities of global trade and the involvement of other countries. The narrative subtly implies that the only solution is for the US to impose tariffs and that any other response isn't considered.
Sustainable Development Goals
The imposition of tariffs by the US on steel and aluminum imports, and the threat of further tariffs on other goods, negatively impacts global trade and economic growth. This disrupts supply chains, reduces market access for businesses, and can lead to job losses in affected industries. The retaliatory tariffs expected from other countries will further exacerbate the negative economic consequences. The article highlights the potential for damage to the global economy and specifically mentions the negative impact on German exports to the US.