Original Source
Trump Threatens to Cut Off Trade with Spain Over Military Bases
Trump Threatens Trade Cut-Off with Spain
US President Donald Trump has threatened to cut off trade with Spain after Madrid refused to allow US forces to use its military bases. This move comes as Spain's refusal to grant access to its bases has strained diplomatic relations, bringing the economic relationship between the two countries under scrutiny.
Spain's Trade with the US and Dependence on Europe
According to the US Census Bureau, in 2025, the US exported approximately $26 billion worth of goods to Spain and imported around $21 billion worth of goods from Spain, totaling about $47 billion in goods trade. However, Spain's economy relies more heavily on trade with Europe than with the US. Data from Spain's Ministry of Economy shows that in 2025, Spain exported €387 billion worth of goods, with nearly three-quarters of that going to European markets, and the EU alone accounting for 62%. Spain's main exports include machinery, chemicals, food products, cars, pharmaceuticals, and olive oil.
Comparative US Trade Exposure Among European Economies
Madrid is less exposed to the US market compared to several other European economies. In Ireland, more than a quarter of its exports go to the US, while for Germany, Italy, and France, the share is around 10%. Spain's share, in comparison, is approximately 4% to 5%. This indicates Spain's relatively lower dependence on the US market in its overall trade strategy.
*Source: YouTube: Euronews, Euronews (2026-03-17)*
