BRUSSELS/WASHINGTON — The European Union on Monday condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to impose a 30% tariff on most EU imports starting August 1, calling it “absolutely unacceptable” and threatening countermeasures if a trade deal is not reached in time.
Trump’s escalation of trade tensions now targets not just the EU but also Mexico, Japan, and South Korea, as part of his protectionist push to boost U.S. manufacturing and job growth. The EU, while continuing talks with Washington, signaled it is nearing the end of its patience.
“The EU never walks away without a genuine effort,” said EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic. “But it takes two hands to clap.”
EU foreign ministers, after a meeting in Brussels, agreed that retaliation would be necessary if negotiations collapse. Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen labeled the tariffs “absolutely unacceptable,” while Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed that a €21 billion tariff list targeting U.S. goods is ready.
The White House, meanwhile, insists negotiations are ongoing. Economic adviser Kevin Hassett said Sunday that Trump is open to revised deals but wants stronger terms. Canada, also under threat of a 35% tariff, is part of the discussions.
German Concerns Deepen
Germany, the EU’s largest economy and a major exporter, expressed alarm. Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned the tariffs could “strike at the core” of German industry. Volker Treier of the German Chamber of Commerce urged swift action to protect transatlantic trade.
European industries are already planning for fallout. Italian Chianti wine producers are urging the EU to help them diversify exports to Asia, South America, and Africa in anticipation of U.S. barriers.
Trump’s April “Liberation Day” tariff plan, which set a minimum 10% duty on all imports, has already rattled global markets. Although the administration paused many duties for 90 days to allow talks, uncertainty remains high. Monday saw European markets drop, with auto and alcohol sectors particularly hit.
Global Scramble for Trade Deals
The August 1 deadline has triggered urgent negotiations. South Korea’s trade minister Yeo Han-koo said Seoul may reach an “in-principle” deal with Washington before then, possibly by offering expanded access to its agricultural market.
Japan, too, faces a 25% tariff if talks fail. With only weeks remaining, governments worldwide are racing to reach agreements that could shield key industries from the looming U.S. tariffs.
