Threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of around 25% on car imports are a "provocation," Germany's car lobby group said on Wednesday, calling on Brussels to strike a deal with what is its biggest export market.

President Donald Trump threatened to place a tariff of around 25% on cars imported into the United States, a policy that could raise prices on cars from most automakers – including American car brands – almost immediately after the tariffs are imposed.

Japan has raised the issue of auto tariffs with the US after President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 25% levy on car imports, a move that would deliver a big blow to Japan’s economy.