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The European Commission has stated that it sees no justification for the US’s proposed policy of reciprocal tariffs under President Donald Trump and has pledged to take strong action against any potential tariff increases resulting from this policy. The Commission labeled the plan as a "step in the wrong direction," as reported by Reuters.
As the body responsible for coordinating trade policy for the 27 EU member states, the European Commission emphasized that the European Union already has some of the lowest tariffs globally, making any tariff hikes on EU exports to the United States unnecessary. The Commission further noted that over 70% of goods imported into the EU enter duty-free.
Meanwhile, a fact sheet from the White House, released on Thursday, pointed out the discrepancy in car import tariffs, with the EU imposing a 10% tariff compared to the 2.5% tariff in the US. In response, the European Commission declared that it would take "decisive and immediate" action against unjustified trade barriers, including the use of tariffs to challenge fair and non-discriminatory policies.
This stance aligns with the comments of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who promised "strong and proportionate countermeasures" against Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum. However, European trade ministers adopted a more diplomatic approach on Wednesday, focusing on negotiations rather than immediate retaliation, acknowledging that the US tariffs would not take effect until March 12, 2025.
Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris stressed that there is still time for discussions. Trump, on Thursday, refrained from imposing new duties, instead initiating an investigation into tariffs on goods from other countries, a process that could take weeks or months to conclude. Three EU diplomats stated that this period should be used for negotiations while preparing a robust response to any potential US tariffs.
Trump's decision to impose a 25% duty on all steel and aluminum imports, with no exemptions, is set to take effect on March 12 this year.
