Brussels is calling for trade talks with Washington while preparing tariff measures.
The European Union has shown it willingness to negotiate a tariff-free trade agreement with the United States, but it also shows it is preparing to retaliate if necessary.
The Trade Minister met in Luxembourg on Monday to discuss the Bullock’s response to US tariffs on steel and aluminum.
After the meeting, EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic told reporters that measures for the bloc will be adjusted after considering parliamentary feedback.
“We’re talking about 26 billion euros when it comes to steel, aluminum and derivatives. [$28bn]”We’ve finalised the list tonight, but we’re listening so carefully to our member states that we can say it won’t be as high as the 26 billion euro level,” Sefcovic said.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had previously said the EU was ready to negotiate a “zero-zero” tariff agreement on industrial products. However, the block confirmed next week that it will begin to impose retaliatory obligations on selected US imports.
“Sometimes or later we will sit at the negotiation table with the United States and find mutually acceptable compromises,” Sefcovic said at a press conference.
He added that the first round of EU tariffs on US goods will come into effect on April 15th, and on May 15th, the second wave will directly address Washington’s obligations on Europe’s steel and aluminum.
Escalations are on the table
Although EU preferences remain negotiated, Sefcovic warned that the block is ready to escalate its response if necessary. This includes calling the Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI), including the EU restricting access to public contracts for US companies and targeting American services.
However, some EU countries, particularly exposed to trade with the US, have urged caution. Ireland’s Foreign Minister Simon Harris described the ACI as “very nuclear choice,” saying he believes most EU countries are not ready to go near, at least for now.
The EU faces 25% US tariffs on steel, aluminum and automobiles, along with 20% duties on almost every other product under President Donald Trump’s protectionist policy.
In the tariff war on goods, Brussels has less room to pilot than Washington. Imports of EU goods from the US totaled 334 billion euros ($36.62 billion) in 2024, compared to EU exports to the US 53.2 billion euros ($58.21 billion).
Dutch Trade Minister Lanett Klever warns that immediate escalation could further disrupt the market and calls for restraint.
“We need to calm down and respond in an escalating way. The stock market shows what happens when escalates quickly. But we’re ready to take steps to bring Americans to the table.”
Despite the EU’s measured approach, planned tariffs are controversial.
Trump has already threatened 200% anti-tariffs on EU alcoholic beverages if a 50% obligation is proposed for US bourbon. The move raised concerns in France and Italy, the leading exporters of wine and spirits.
Source link
