EU to Impose Counter Tariffs on $28 Billion of U.S. Goods Amid Escalating Trade War

The European Union is set to retaliate against the United States’ sweeping tariffs on steel and aluminum by imposing countermeasures worth 26 billion euros ($28 billion) on American goods. The European Commission announced on Wednesday that these tariffs will take effect next month, escalating global trade tensions.

While the EU remains open to negotiations, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that these countermeasures are a necessary response.

“The countermeasures we take today are strong but proportionate. As the United States imposes tariffs worth $28 billion, we are responding accordingly to safeguard our consumers and businesses,” she stated.

The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, implemented a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports as previous exemptions and duty-free quotas expired. In response, the EU has decided to lift its suspension on tariffs on U.S. products starting April 1, with full enforcement expected by April 13.

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The EU’s new tariffs will primarily target industrial and agricultural products, including steel, aluminum, textiles, home appliances, and plastics.

Additionally, food products such as poultry, beef, eggs, dairy, sugar, and vegetables are also under consideration. The Commission has initiated a two-week consultation period to finalize the list of affected goods.

Trade disputes between economic giants like the U.S. and the EU create ripple effects across global markets, impacting businesses, workers, and consumers. As tensions mount, von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s willingness to engage in diplomatic dialogue.

“We firmly believe that in a world fraught with geopolitical and economic uncertainties, burdening our economies with tariffs is not in our common interest. We are ready to engage in meaningful discussions,” she stated.