The European Union has condemned the United States’ decision to impose new tariffs on steel and aluminium imports, warning of retaliatory measures against what it calls an “unjustified” trade move by President Donald Trump.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated on Tuesday that the EU would take “firm and proportionate” countermeasures in response to the 25% tariffs, which Washington announced overnight.
US Tariffs and the EU’s Reaction
“Tariffs are taxes—bad for business, worse for consumers,” von der Leyen said in a statement. She emphasised that the EU would act to safeguard its economic interests, vowing to protect European workers, businesses, and consumers.
The new tariffs effectively revoke earlier trade agreements that had granted exemptions to the EU, the UK, Japan, and other allies. Speaking at the White House on Monday night, Trump defended the decision, stating: “It’s a big deal. This is the beginning of making America rich again.”
Brussels has responded with strong rhetoric but has so far stopped short of announcing specific countermeasures. However, EU officials confirmed they are assessing the scope of the tariffs and preparing a response.
EU Trade Officials Denounce Move
Speaking in Strasbourg, EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warned that the US tariffs would have “disruptive effects” on global trade.
“By imposing tariffs, the US will be taxing its own citizens, raising costs for its own businesses, and fueling inflation,” he told the European Parliament. He added that the measures would create a “lose-lose scenario” for both sides.
Historical Parallels and Potential EU Countermeasures
The latest tariffs echo a similar trade dispute in 2018 when Trump first imposed duties on steel and aluminium imports. At the time, the EU responded by targeting iconic US products such as Harley-Davidson motorcycles, jeans, lighters, cranberry juice, and bourbon. The dispute was later resolved under the Biden administration, with the tariffs being suspended in 2021.
With Trump’s new measures set to take effect on 12 March 2025, the EU is expected to explore a range of responses. Potential countermeasures could include targeted tariffs on US exports or a legal challenge at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Economic Impact on Europe
According to industry figures from Eurofer and German steel manufacturers, around 20% of EU steel output is exported to the US, making American tariffs a significant concern for European producers. The EU is currently the third-largest supplier of steel and aluminium to the US, and the tariffs are expected to hit key exporting countries, including Germany, France, and Italy.
With European steelmakers already facing global competition and pressure to scale down production, the tariffs could further strain an industry that is navigating economic slowdowns and increasing regulatory costs.
Next Steps and Diplomatic Engagement
Von der Leyen is scheduled to meet US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday, in what could be an attempt to defuse tensions before any retaliatory measures are implemented. While the EU has signalled its readiness to act, it remains to be seen whether negotiations can avert a full-scale trade dispute.
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Trump Announces 25% Tariffs on All Steel and Aluminium Imports
