German auto association chief: must avoid 'spiral of protectionism'

BERLIN, Feb 8 (Reuters) - The head of Germany's VDA auto association said on Wednesday it was important that the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act does not lead to a "spiral of protectionism" and praised Economy Minister Robert Habeck for championing closer transatlantic relations.

"It is important to prevent U.S. support practises resulting in copycat responses and counter-reactions e.g. from the EU, which could lead to an overall spiral of protectionism," VDA President Hildegard Mueller said in a statement.

Habeck said on Tuesday he sensed great willingness on Washington's part to engage with Europe's concerns about the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act but gave few specifics. (Writing by Paul Carrel, Editing by Miranda Murray)