Elon Musk speaks out against US trade policies, calling for a ‘zero-tariff situation’ and a ‘free trade zone’ between Europe and the US.
Over the weekend, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk took aim at President Donald Trump‘s advisor on trade and manufacturing, Peter Navarro, in a scathing tweet. This marks a significant departure from Musk’s previous stance on the issue, as he now appears to be breaking rank with the president.
Elon Musk is a South African-born entrepreneur and business magnate.
He co-founded PayPal, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company.
Musk's innovative ventures have revolutionized transportation with SpaceX's reusable rockets and electric cars with Tesla.
He has also made significant contributions to renewable energy through SolarCity.
With an estimated net worth of over $200 billion, Musk is one of the richest people in the world.
The Impact of Tariffs on International Markets
Trump’s draconian tariffs have ravaged international markets, stoking fears of an imminent recession. ‘The economic consequences of these policies are far-reaching and devastating for businesses worldwide.’ As a result, Musk’s companies, particularly Tesla, are likely to face significant pressure due to the rising costs.
A Zero-Tariff Situation: Musk’s Vision
Musk recently attended a meeting with Italian right-wing populist political party Lega over a video link, where he expressed his desire for a ‘zero-tariff situation’ and a ‘free trade zone’ between Europe and the US. He emphasized that people should be allowed to work in either continent without restrictions.
A Strained Relationship

The president’s unjustified ‘reciprocal’ tariffs have been disastrous for business, putting a major strain on his relationship with one of his closest allies. Trump’s economic policy is causing significant damage to his once-strong bond with Musk.
The Consequences for Tesla and Musk’s Businesses
Musk’s businesses are likely to face a brutal bear market, an uncertain fate that’s leading to heated conversations behind the scenes. With Tesla heavily reliant on foreign supply lines, the company’s shares have already taken a hit, falling nearly six percent in the morning. The firm’s sales are tanking as consumers become increasingly disenchanted with ‘Musk’s extremist views and government antics’.
A Shift in Dynamics
The White House appears to be keen to maintain Musk’s good graces, even after he departs from public service as a special government employee in a few months. However, Navarro is responding to Musk’s criticism with a patronizing tone, suggesting that the entrepreneur is simply protecting his own interests.
The Future of Trump-Musk Alliance
Whether the latest news will break the uneasy alliance between Musk and Trump remains to be seen. In the absence of a major reversal in the president’s chaotic trade policy, Musk’s businesses are likely to continue facing significant challenges.
- futurism.com | Elon Musk Breaks Rank, Rages Against Donald Trumps Tariffs