The European Union has warned that it will respond “firmly and immediately” to any trade barriers imposed by the United States, following President Donald Trump’s latest announcement on tariffs.
In a statement released Friday, the European Commission criticised Trump’s proposed "reciprocal" trade policy, arguing that it would increase economic uncertainty and disrupt global markets.
"The EU will react firmly and immediately against unjustified barriers to free and fair trade," the Commission declared, reaffirming its commitment to defending European businesses and consumers.
On Thursday, President Trump announced his decision to impose tariffs on US trading partners, saying the move was necessary to counter unfair trade practices. Speaking from the Oval Office, he took particular aim at the European Union, calling it "absolutely brutal" in its trade dealings with the US.
A White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that the new levies would be tailored to each trading partner and would take into account existing tariffs on American goods, as well as certain tax policies - such as value-added taxes (VATs) - which the administration views as discriminatory.
The European Commission strongly pushed back against Trump's claims, stating that the EU maintains some of the lowest tariffs in the world and sees no valid reason for increased US duties on its exports. "Tariffs are taxes," the Commission warned. "By imposing tariffs, the US is taxing its own citizens, raising costs for businesses, stifling growth, and fueling inflation."
Since taking office, Trump has repeatedly used tariffs as both an economic tool and a negotiating tactic, targeting key US trading partners. His latest announcement signals a further escalation in global trade tensions, raising concerns over potential economic fallout.