The European Commission vowed to take swift and decisive action against trade barriers following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that his administration would soon impose a 25% tariff on imports from the European Union.
“The EU will react firmly and immediately against unjustified barriers to free and fair trade, including when tariffs are used to challenge legal and non-discriminatory policies,” a commission spokesperson stated in response to Trump’s remarks.
In an emailed statement, the spokesperson emphasised that “the EU will always protect European businesses, workers, and consumers from unjustified tariffs.”
During a cabinet meeting, Trump was asked whether a tariff rate had been determined for EU goods. He responded, “We have made a decision, and we’ll be announcing it very soon, and it’ll be 25%, generally speaking, and that’ll be on cars, and all of the things.”
He also claimed that the EU was created “in order to screw the United States.”
Addressing that statement, the Commission spokesperson countered: “The European Union is the world’s largest free market. And it has been a boon for the United States.”
The spokesperson highlighted the benefits of the EU’s single market, stating that it has facilitated trade, lowered costs for U.S. exporters, and harmonised standards and regulations across 27 countries.
“As a result, U.S. investments in Europe are highly profitable,” they added.
Reaffirming the EU’s stance on trade, the spokesperson said, “Europe stands for dialogue, openness, and reciprocity. We’re ready to partner if you play by the rules. But we will also protect our consumers and businesses at every turn. They expect no less.”
