Source: European Parliament
On 15 July 2025, Commission officials gave an update on the ongoing trade negotiations between the EU and the US, focusing on the most recent round, which was abruptly interrupted over the weekend of 12–13 July 2025, following President Trump’s announcement of a 30% tariff on all EU imports. They emphasized the serious impact such a measure would have on the EU Single Market, given the high level of economic integration between the two regions.
While negotiations continue, Commission officials (DG GROW) confirmed that it is preparing a second list of products–beyond steel and aluminium–that could be subject to EU counter-tariffs, aiming to minimise the negative impact on the internal market.
Members questioned the EU’s negotiation approach, which appears to reflect the lowest common denominator among Member States, even in areas where the Commission has full competence to act independently. They also asked whether a Digital Services Tax could be introduced as a retaliatory measure.
Additionally, Members expressed concern over media reports suggesting that possible compromises under discussion might weaken EU legislation. The Commission reassured them that preserving the EU’s regulatory autonomy remains a non-negotiable principle and that all options remain on the table should talks fail.