The EU Commission warns of immediate countermeasures after Trump imposes tariffs on steel and aluminum, reigniting a trade dispute with annual trade volumes of $1.5T at stake.
Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on EU steel and aluminum has triggered a strong reaction. The European Commission calls the move “unjustified” and vows retaliation. The EU, representing 27 nations, sees these tariffs as harmful to global trade.
The EU and U.S. trade relationship is massive, worth $1.5T annually. In 2023, EU exports to the U.S. in goods totaled $878B, with a $161B surplus. However, in services, the U.S. held a $107B surplus. These tariffs could disrupt this balance, hurting businesses on both sides.
Trump imposed similar tariffs in 2018, leading the EU to retaliate with taxes on U.S. motorcycles, bourbon, and jeans. History seems to be repeating itself. While the EU hasn’t announced its exact countermeasures yet, strong retaliation is expected.
The EU warns that tariffs will “stifle growth and fuel inflation.” Businesses fear rising costs and market uncertainty. With both sides standing firm, another transatlantic trade war may be looming. The big question: Who will blink first?
Will Trump’s tariffs push the EU into a full-blown trade war?
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