The CEO of $MRK (-0,22 %)Belén Garijo, expressed her optimism at the #wef2025 optimistic that Europe can strengthen its global competitiveness. Despite growing competition from the USA and China, the pharmaceutical company is continuing to invest in its own region.
"We have invested heavily in Europe because we are convinced that the ship can be turned"
The comments come after Donald Trump voiced plans to punish the EU & China with tariffs to counter what he sees as "unfair trade practices".
Garijo said Merck is prepared for such developments by expanding its presence in the US and pursuing local strategies pursuing local strategiesto counteract potential trade restrictions.
"We have diversified our supply chain to be closer to our customers and better able to respond to potential trade restrictions"
