EU Readies Tariff Retaliation Against US as Trade Talks Stall

As President Trump announces plans for significant tariffs on EU goods, European officials prepare to retaliate, contemplating a response in the form of levies on over $100 billion worth of American imports amidst stalled trade negotiations.

In a continued struggle over trade relations, European Union officials are strategizing a significant pushback against the United States due to President Trump’s anticipated tariffs. Following talks that have resulted in little progress, the EU is now finalizing a plan to potentially levy tariffs on more than $100 billion worth of American imports if negotiations remain unproductive.

"There are serious doubts about whether they will actually impose these tariffs," remarked Frances Burwell, an expert from the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center. Despite having developed a response plan over several months, the EU had previously opted for diplomacy, suspending an earlier approval for tariffs on €21 billion (almost $25 billion) of American products when Trump paused some planned tariffs in April. This moratorium was an attempt to encourage negotiations.

However, negotiations have yielded no tangible results, with Trump announcing on social media last week a proposed 30 percent tariff on EU goods starting August 1. This prompted EU officials to delay the announcement of a previously shelved list of retaliatory tariffs to leave the door open for further talks. Nonetheless, they have vowed to respond assertively if the situation deteriorates.

EU trade representatives are reportedly completing a second list of tariffs targeting an extensive range of U.S. products, which might include items like Boeing planes and Kentucky bourbon valued at €72 billion ($84 billion). This draft has been circulated to member states but awaits a official vote. The preparation for retaliation reflects the EU’s desire to find a mutually agreeable solution, yet they acknowledge that action may be the only way to effectively engage with the U.S. administration, as many officials believe strength is the only language Trump comprehends.