Elon Musk, known as the wealthiest individual globally and a prominent figure within the Department of Government Efficiency in the Trump administration, expressed his desire for a tariff-free relationship between Europe and the United States. During a virtual conversation with Matteo Salvini, Italy’s deputy prime minister and the leader of the League party, Musk advocated for both regions to transition towards a scenario of zero tariffs, thus establishing a free-trade zone between Europe and North America. Musk's statements followed President Donald Trump's recent announcement of imposing a 20% tariff on EU goods.

In a social media post on X, Musk criticized Peter Navarro, a key advocate of the tariffs within the Trump administration, disregarding Navarro's financial expertise from Harvard University. Musk additionally commented on Navarro's professional achievements by stating, "He ain’t built sh*t."

Tesla, under Musk's controversial management with DOGE, has faced a decline in sales in recent months. Sales reportedly dropped by 49% in Europe during the initial months of the quarter according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. In Italy, Tesla's sales in the first quarter of the year decreased by 7% compared to the same period in the previous year, as reported by the country's transport ministry.

Italy's Economy Minister, Giancarlo Giorgetti, highlighted Italy's trade surplus with the U.S. amounting to approximately 39 billion euros ($42.74 billion) in 2024 and expressed the country's aim for a reduction of tensions with the U.S. concerning tariffs. In 2024, Italy's economy experienced a modest growth of 0.5% compared to the preceding year.

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