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The European Union has declared its readiness to conclude a fair trade agreement with the United States, despite threats of tariff increases by the Donald Trump administration. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič stressed that Brussels seeks an equal partnership rather than negotiations under pressure. This was reported by the BBC.
“The EU is fully committed to reaching an agreement that will be beneficial for both sides,” Šefčovič said after a telephone conversation with US Trade Representative Jamison Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Latnick. “The trade relations between the EU and the US are unique and should be based on mutual respect, not threats. We are ready to defend our interests,” he added.
The European Commissioner’s statements came after President Trump threatened to impose 50% tariffs on all imports from the European Union, expressing disappointment with the pace of negotiations. According to him, the tariff increase is scheduled for 1 June.
Europe is not retreating
Although the European Commission has not officially commented on Trump’s statement, some European leaders have already reacted. German Deputy Foreign Minister Johannes Wadefuhl said that “there are no winners in a trade war” and that the new duties would only weaken economic growth on both sides.
French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade Laurent Saint Martin also said that “threats do not help in the negotiation process”. He emphasised that France and the EU adhere to a policy of de-escalation, but are ready to respond.
Background to the trade escalation
Since March, the US has already imposed 25% duties on steel, aluminium, and auto components, regardless of country of origin. In response, on 9 April, the EU approved mirror duties of 10% to 25% on a range of US products, from motorcycles to chicken.
On 2 April, the Trump administration announced the second phase of tariffs: a base tariff of 10% for all imported goods (except for those already subject to 25%), with additional surcharges depending on the trade balance and the level of tariffs imposed by other countries.
However, on 9 April, the US President temporarily suspended additional tariffs (over 10%) for 90 days, except for restrictions on China. In response, the European Commission also temporarily suspended its mirror duties – although US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports remain in place.
