EU Plans Countermeasures as U.S. Tariffs Threaten Nearly All European Exports

The European Union is planning potential countermeasures in response to the wide range of U.S. tariffs currently affecting EU exports during a 90-day suspension period initiated by President Donald Trump, according to European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic. He stated that these U.S. tariffs already impact 70% of EU goods sent to the U.S., a figure that could increase to 97% pending additional American investigations into sectors like pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.

Sefcovic emphasized that the EU still prefers a negotiated resolution with the U.S. and urged Washington to demonstrate a genuine willingness to work toward a fair and balanced agreement. Speaking before the European Parliament, he reiterated that the EU is facing 25% tariffs on exports of steel, aluminum, and cars, and 10% tariffs on most other goods, which could potentially rise to 20% following the current pause.

He noted that the EU will use the period leading up to July 8 to develop further measures to rebalance trade if discussions fail to produce results, stressing that “all options remain open.” While the EU has temporarily halted its retaliatory measures on steel to support ongoing negotiations, progress has so far been limited. Additionally, Sefcovic warned of potential import surges resulting from global trade being redirected due to the U.S. tariffs. A task force monitoring such trade shifts is expected to deliver its first findings in mid-May.