Trade negotiations between the United States and Europe will be difficult but the global economic downturn increases the chances for the parties to reach a deal, German Economy Minister Peter Altmaier said on Tuesday.

"The talks which lie ahead will be difficult," Altmaier told public broadcaster Deutschlandfunk.

"I was there (in the U.S.) in June and my impression is that, for the U.S. administration, reaching a solution is seen as more important than continuing the conflict," he added.