15:18 - 21.10.2026

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October 21, Fineko/abc.az. Mercedes-Benz Group CEO and ACEA President Ola Källenius has warned that the European Union’s push to protect its domestic auto industry risks escalating manufacturing costs and disrupting global supply chains.

Speaking at the Berlin Global Dialogue, Källenius cautioned that local content rules under the "Made in Europe" strategy make vehicle production more expensive. He stated that Europe cannot afford to become an "isolated island" cut off from key trade partners like the US, China, Japan, and South Korea. Instead of protectionist measures, Källenius urged Brussels to finalize free trade agreements with India and South America.