Washing machines were subjected to tariffs of more than 15% by the United States.

Omissions

• The claim does not specify which tariff measure or time period it refers to, making it imprecise. The MEP's use of 'suddenly' (plötzlich) likely alludes to the Trump 2.0 tariff actions of 2025.
• The actual tariff rate applicable to washing machines — 50% under the expanded Section 232 tariffs on steel derivatives as of June 2025 — is substantially higher than the 'more than 15%' threshold stated. The MEP understated the magnitude.
• Only secondary sources were found; no primary official source (e.g., Federal Register notice or USTR proclamation) was directly consulted, which limits full verification.
• The claim does not distinguish between different US tariff regimes affecting washing machines: the original Section 201 safeguard tariffs (imposed in 2018, starting at 20%), Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, and the 2025 Section 232 expansion on steel-based appliances.

Sources

• SecondaryGEODIS — Commerce Expands 50% Section 232 Tariffs to Steel-Based Household AppliancesNew steel derivative products will be subject to the 50% tariffs under Section 232. The expanded tariff coverage takes effect at 12:01 am ET on June 23, 2025. The expansion covers steel-based household appliances.
• SecondaryTax Foundation — Tracking the Impact of the Trump Tariffs & Trade WarThe average effective tariff rate was the highest since 1947 in 2025. The report tracks the cumulative impact of Section 232, Section 301, and other tariff actions on a wide range of goods including household appliances.