QUOTES-Reactions to Trump auto tariffs

March 26 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday unveiled a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks starting next week, widening the global trade war he kicked off upon regaining the White House this year in a move auto industry experts expect will drive up prices and stymie production.

Here are some reactions to the ruling.

NATIONAL FOREIGN TRADE COUNCIL, WHICH REPRESENTS MANY U.S. COMPANIES, VP TIFFANY SMITH

“Placing tariffs on imports of autos risks damaging the competitiveness and export readiness of an industry that relies on integrated international supply chains and markets for its success.

“We urge the administration to focus on the competitiveness of the U.S. auto industry and prioritize market opening opportunities for auto companies who manufacture vehicles for export in the United States.”

UNITED AUTO WORKERS UNION PRESIDENT SHAWN FAIN

“We applaud the Trump administration for stepping up to end the free trade disaster that has devastated working class communities for decades ... These tariffs are a major step in the right direction for autoworkers and blue-collar communities across the country, and it is now on the automakers, from the Big Three to Volkswagen and beyond, to bring back good union jobs to the U.S.”

UK'S SOCIETY OF MOTOR MANUFACTURERS AND TRADERS CEO MIKE HAWES

“Today's announcement by President Trump is not surprising but, nevertheless, disappointing if, as seems likely, additional tariffs are to apply to UK made cars ... Rather than imposing additional tariffs, we should explore ways in which opportunities for both British and American manufacturers can be created as part of a mutually beneficial relationship."

CHUCK CARLSON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, HORIZON INVESTMENT SERVICES, HAMMOND, INDIANA

"I've been kind of suspect on all the tariff talks in terms of what is going to last, what is a negotiation, what is going to be pulled at the last minute. My initial reaction was this tariff might have some legs."

"There's probably going to be some exemptions or modifications for some of the U.S. automakers ... I could see the U.S. automakers getting some exemptions based on their supply chains. But I think he may want to see how this works out as opposed to stopping it in two or three days. That's my initial reaction, that this particular tariff might have legs in terms of its longevity."