Joint action aligns with the strategy of China and Canada, increasing the risk of a commercial war on a global scale
The countries that make up are mobilizing to form a cohesive response to import rates imposed by Donald Trump’s administration. The European block plans to implement countermeasures that can affect up to $ 28 billion in US products. This joint action aligns with the strategy of China and Canada, increasing the risk of a global trade war. Currently, the European Union faces 25% tariffs on products such as steel, aluminum and cars, and a 20% rate on most other items. These rates impact about 70% of EU exports to the United States, which totaled 532 billion euros last year. The situation requires a coordinated response to protect the block’s economic interests.
The European Commission is preparing a list of US products that may be the target of additional tariffs, including items such as meat, cereals, wine, wood and clothing. One of the most controversial points is the 50% rate on whiskey, which generated a threat of Trump to impose a 200% rate on EU alcohol, intensifying tensions between the parts. ‘A political meeting will be held in Luxembourg to discuss the consequences of tariffs and the best response strategies. The goal is to convey a clear message that the European Union is willing to negotiate with Washington, but also ready to adopt retaliatory measures if there is no advances in conversations.
Within the European Union, opinions about the approach to be adopted vary. While France proposes a package of measures that goes beyond tariffs, Ireland defends a more cautious response. Negotiations with the United States have not advanced, and the EU’s first countermeasures are expected to be voted on soon, with the expectation that they will be approved. The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is meeting with leaders of the sectors who will be impacted by tariffs to better understand economic repercussions.
Posted by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the aid of AI
