The European Commission is setting its sights on imposing tariffs on €72 billion worth of US goods, encompassing everything from Boeing aircraft and bourbon whiskey to automobiles. This move could come into play if trade talks with the US do not yield positive results.
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US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 30% tariff on imports from the EU starting August 1. European officials have expressed that such a level is “unacceptable” and would disrupt normal trade between two of the world’s largest economies.
The proposed tariff list, shared with EU member states and acquired by Reuters, comes in response to previous US duties on cars and car parts, alongside a 10% baseline tariff. This comprehensive package also includes a variety of products such as chemicals, medical devices, electrical and precision equipment, as well as agricultural goods—covering a wide array of fruits, vegetables, wine, beer, and spirits—valued at €6.35 billion.
EU trade chief Maroš Šefčovič emphasized the unprecedented determination among EU representatives to safeguard European businesses. He stated, “The message was the strongest I’ve witnessed since we started the discussion with the US. Therefore, we will negotiate first, but we will prepare at the same time,” he remarked during a recent press conference.
Later today, Mr. Šefčovič is set to engage in discussions with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, as confirmed by EU spokesperson Olof Gill: “I can confirm that Commissioner Šefčovič will have a call with the United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer this early evening.”
Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot criticized Mr. Trump’s latest threats, characterizing them as “the appearance of blackmail.” He emphasized the priority of reaching a trade agreement but made it clear that this should not come at the expense of “becoming a vassal of the United States.”
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In a stern warning, Mr. Trump has cautioned Brussels against retaliatory measures, asserting that the US would simply increase the 30% tariff to match any new European levies.
The European Commission, which is responsible for EU trade policy, has yet to finalize a specific tariff rate for the goods listed. Approval from EU member states is necessary before any measures can be enforced, and a date for a vote has not been established.
Typically, the commission would consult with EU governments about their concerns before proceeding with countermeasures, unless a majority of 15 countries object. The European drinks industry, heavily reliant on the US market, has been advocating for the exclusion of bourbon and other wines and spirits from the EU’s list, due to fears of retaliation from Washington. Countries such as France, Spain, and Italy have voiced significant concerns regarding the potential impacts on their economies.
Previously, alcoholic beverages were excluded from the EU’s initial package of tariffs approved in April, which had targeted €21 billion worth of US goods and was immediately suspended to facilitate negotiations. This suspension has now been extended until August 6.
The Commission initially proposed a second package in May during a public consultation, identifying approximately €95 billion worth of US goods for possible countermeasures. While this list has subsequently been trimmed, most major items have remained intact.
“Trade relations are intricate and require every opportunity for dialogue and understanding; it is through cooperation that we can achieve the best outcomes,” remarked a senior EU official.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International—Monitoring.
