The European Union (EU) has responded swiftly to President Trump’s new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum, implementing a two-step strategy. First, the EU will let the suspension of its 2018 and 2020 countermeasures against the U.S. expire on April 1. Second, a fresh package of retaliatory tariffs, impacting approximately $28 billion worth of U.S. imports, is set to take effect by mid-April.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed deep regret over the tariffs, warning that they harm businesses, disrupt supply chains, and drive up prices for consumers in both Europe and the U.S. She emphasized that while the EU’s response is firm, it remains proportionate.
The EU has released a detailed list of potential tariff targets, including food products like fruits, vegetables, meat, and alcoholic beverages, as well as goods such as motorcycles, outerwear, household appliances, and workshop tools. Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s willingness to engage in discussions, assigning Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič to negotiate alternatives with the U.S.
Meanwhile, Trump has defended his tariff increases, arguing they will support U.S. manufacturing jobs and rebalance what he calls unfair trade deals with the EU. His new tariffs raise aluminum duties from 10% to 25%, alongside additional proposed taxes on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. The U.S. also plans to increase steel and aluminum tariffs on Canada in response to Ontario’s electricity surcharge, escalating tensions in the ongoing trade dispute.
The EU is set to brief its 27 member states on the details of its response later in the day.
