Brussels (TDI): The European Commission said on Wednesday that the EU will react firmly and justly against barriers to free and fair trade after the Trump administration announced that it would impose 25% tariffs on imports from the European Union.
In response to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump regarding potential tariffs on European Union goods, the European Commission reasserted its commitment to protecting free and fair trade while warning against unjustified trade barriers.
The exchange underlined growing tensions between the two economic powerhouses, with the EU signaling its willingness to defend its interests while maintaining a preference for dialogue and cooperation.
A spokesperson for the European Commission, addressing Trump’s comments, stated: “The EU would react firmly and immediately to any unjustified barriers to trade, including the use of tariffs to challenge legal and non-discriminatory policies.”
The spokesperson said that the EU remained loyal to its mission to protect European businesses, workers, and consumers from unfair trade practices.
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Moreover, Trump, speaking during a cabinet meeting, indicated that a decision on tariffs for EU goods had been reached, with a 25% rate expected to be announced soon.
He specifically mentioned cars and other products as potential targets while also making controversial remarks about the EU’s formation, which he claimed was designed to disadvantage the United States.
The Commission spokesperson countered this move, elucidating the EU’s role as the world’s largest free market and its positive impact on the US economy.
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The spokesperson stated that in addition to integrating a single market, the EU has facilitated trade, reduced costs for US exporters, and organized standards across its 27 member states.
These efforts, they added, have made US investments in Europe highly profitable, benefiting both economies.
The spokesperson further stressed that the EU stands for dialogue, openness, and willingness to partner with the US provided that rules are respected.
However, they also clarified that the EU would not hesitate to protect its consumers and businesses from adverse measures.
Additionally, the EU has signaled its openness to constructive engagement and drawn a clear line in the sand, focusing on its willingness to respond decisively to any actions that threaten its economic interests.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will watch closely to see whether dialogue or confrontation will define the future of EU-US trade relations.
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