US President Donald Trump has threatened to slap 30% tariffs on imports from the EU and Mexico starting August 1, after weeks of stalled talks with key trading partners. The announcement came via letters posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Trump accused Mexico of failing to halt cartels from flooding the US with illicit drugs like fentanyl, and criticized the EU for its tariff and non-tariff barriers, which he blamed for causing 'long-term, large, and persistent trade deficits'. Similar letters to over 20 other partners—ranging from Canada to Brazil—warned of blanket tariff rates between 20% and 50% unless they relocate companies to the US or step up cooperation.
In Brussels, von der Leyen called for continued dialogue to reach an agreement before the deadline, but didn’t rule out countermeasures. 'Imposing 30 percent tariffs on EU exports would disrupt essential transatlantic supply chains,' she noted, emphasizing the bloc’s commitment to rules-based trade.
Mexico’s Ministry of Economy said it raised concerns over what it called unfair treatment during a recent roundtable with US officials, and is already negotiating to prevent the tariffs from taking effect. The ministry highlighted ongoing talks aimed at easing tensions ahead of August 1.
As the countdown begins, businesses in Europe and North America are bracing for potential price hikes and supply chain shifts. For young entrepreneurs and travelers alike, the looming tariffs underscore how geopolitical decisions can ripple through global markets, tech investments, and everyday consumer costs.
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Trump threatens 30% tariffs on EU, Mexico amid trade tensions
cgtn.com
