Countdown to Trade War? EU Mulls Countermeasures to Trump’s Tariffs

The countdown to a potential trade war has begun as the EU mulls countermeasures to Donald Trump’s threatened 17% tariffs on European food and farm produce exports. This significant tariff, if implemented, would impact popular products like Belgian chocolate, Irish Kerrygold butter, and olive oil from various European nations that are highly sought after by American consumers.
The stark warning was reportedly delivered to EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič during talks in Washington with senior US officials. The EU’s ambassadors were subsequently briefed on Friday, highlighting the seriousness with which Brussels views the potential economic confrontation and Trump’s consistent “aggressive negotiating position.”
While EU trade spokesperson Olof Gill reiterated the bloc’s preference for a “negotiated solution,” noting that “progress was made towards an agreement in principle” during recent discussions, the EU’s preparedness for escalation is evident. The EU has made it clear that if Trump’s tariffs are enacted, it will respond with its own duties on US exports, ranging from Bourbon to Boeing 747s.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the pragmatic goal of a high-level framework deal, recognizing the challenge of securing a comprehensive agreement in the short timeframe. A key demand from the EU is immediate tariff relief in crucial sectors, particularly the auto industry, which currently faces a punitive 27.5% US tariff. The looming July 9 deadline, marking the end of a 90-day tariff pause for over 60 countries, adds a critical sense of urgency to these ongoing trade negotiations.