Irish Deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste) Simon Harris Discusses Ireland-US Trade Tensions with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick
Tánaiste Simon Harris has met with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to discuss trade relations amid concerns over impending US tariffs.
During the conversation, Harris and Lutnick exchanged views on economic links between Ireland, the EU, and the United States. Harris welcomed the opportunity for further discussions, emphasizing Ireland’s strong economic ties with the US.
The talks come as the Trump administration is expected to introduce new tariffs on the EU starting April 2. According to Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe, this could threaten up to 80,000 jobs in Ireland.
Lutnick, a known critic of Ireland’s trade practices, had previously described the country as his favourite “tax scam”.
The European Commission is reportedly open to revisiting its list of retaliatory tariffs, with Harris stressing that any response should be strategic.
Harris’s call with Lutnick marks their first official engagement since the US commerce secretary vowed to address Ireland’s trade imbalance before assuming his role.
