ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 9888ProclamationTrump 45 · R

Proclamation 9888

Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts Into the United States

This proclamation declares that imports of automobiles and certain automobile parts threaten U.S. national security under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. It directs the U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate agreements with the European Union, Japan, and other countries to address this threat, with a progress report due in 180 days, while keeping tariffs in reserve if negotiations fail.

Federal Register Open PDF 84 FR 23433

Impact dates

  1. USTR must update President on negotiation outcomes

  2. Statutory deadline for entering into agreement before President may take other actions

Key directives

  • USTR shall pursue negotiation of agreements under 19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i) with EU, Japan, and other appropriate countries
  • USTR shall update President on negotiation outcomes within 180 days
  • Secretary of Commerce shall continue monitoring automobile and auto parts imports for national security concerns
  • Secretary shall inform President of circumstances requiring further Section 232 action

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Negotiation directive issued to USTR
  • Section 232 national security finding takes effect

Near term (90d)

  • USTR pursues trade negotiations with EU, Japan, and other countries
  • Secretary of Commerce continues monitoring imports

Long term

  • Potential tariff imposition if negotiations fail or prove ineffective after 180-day period
  • Possible restructuring of automotive trade relationships

Risks & tensions

  • Threat of tariffs on close allies (EU, Japan) risks trade retaliation and alliance strain
  • National security framing of commercial trade dispute may be contested by trading partners
  • 180-day negotiation window creates pressure for rapid deal-making or automatic escalation
  • Vague 'any other country' language gives USTR broad discretion, creating uncertainty for global suppliers
  • Statutory mechanism points toward tariffs if negotiations fail, but proclamation avoids immediate tariff commitment—ambiguous whether this is delay or genuine negotiation window
Proclamation 9888: Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts Into the United States · Executive Orders