US President Donald Trump is recommending a straight 50% tariff on EU goods from 1 June after expressing frustration with ongoing talks.
Writing on his Truth Social account, the President said Europe “has been very difficult to deal with” before listing barriers which he claims have to themade worse thetrade deficit with forthe US.
After a relatively calm period, which saw the US forge a trade deal with the UK, the move is a reminder of the precarious tariffs situation, and uncertainties facing businesses in their commercial planning.
Two weeks ago, the European Commission launched a public consultation on a list of US imports which could become subject to EU countermeasures,if ongoing EU––US negotiations do not result in a mutually beneficial outcome and the removal of the US tariffs.
The list put to consultation concerns imports from the US worth €95bn, covering a broad range of industrial and agricultural products.
Europe’s anti-coercion instrument, designed as a deterrent against third countries influencing policy, has not yet been used, but European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen did appear to leave the door open in April, just ahead of Trump’s previous tariff announcement.
“Europe holds a lot of cards. From trade to technology to the size of our market. But this strength is also built on our readiness to take firm countermeasures. All instruments are on the table,” she said.
