In a bold move to counter sweeping U.S. tariff measures, the European Union is set to unveil its first round of retaliatory steps against tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The bloc is gearing up to target up to $28 billion worth of U.S. imports — spanning a diverse range from dental floss to diamonds — with targeted countermeasures designed to hit key sectors directly.
During a crucial meeting in Luxembourg, trade ministers from the 27 EU members will come together to explore strategies aimed at negotiating the removal of these tariffs with Washington. While the main goal is to forge a united voice calling for tariff reversal, EU diplomats stressed that the bloc remains prepared to implement countermeasures if negotiations stall.
The backdrop for these moves involves the U.S. imposing a 25-percent tariff on steel, aluminium, and cars, alongside a broad reciprocal tariff of 20 percent on nearly all other goods. With these duties covering about 70 percent of the EU's exports to the United States last year — worth approximately 532 billion euros — the stakes are incredibly high. Key sectors including copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, timber, and even chewing gum are now in the spotlight.
This dynamic trade tussle not only represents high-stakes economic pressure but also signals the EU's determination to maintain unity amid challenging global disruptions. Market watchers, young global citizens, tech enthusiasts, and business leaders alike are keeping a close eye on this strategic response, which could have far-reaching implications for international trade dynamics.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
