Source: European Parliament
The Commission regrets the decisions of the United States (US) to impose tariffs on exports of EU goods, notably steel and aluminium, cars and car parts, and other products subject to a universal tariff of 10%, which hurt businesses and consumers. The universal tariffs regrettably also target EU exports of wine and spirits.
The priority remains to avoid disruptions to EU-US trade and to seek negotiated solutions with the US. The Commission stated its readiness to negotiate a zero for zero tariff agreement on industrial products with the goal of achieving frictionless and mutually beneficial trade.
In light of the decision by the US to delay by 90 days and partially suspend its universal tariffs, the EU has decided to put its countermeasures on hold for the same length of time.
This gesture of goodwill will give time for negotiations to proceed. If, however, the talks are not satisfactory, the EU countermeasures will come into force on 14 July 2025. In addition, on 8 May 2025, the Commission launched a stakeholder consultation on further EU rebalancing measures[1] against the US, including possible rebalancing measures on imports of wine and spirits from the US.
At the same time, the Commission continues to focus on diversifying its trade partnerships, engaging with other countries that share the commitment to a free and open exchange of goods, services, and ideas. The Commission is also stepping up its effort to lift barriers in the EU single market.
- [1] https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/consultations/information-gathering-notice-under-regulation-eu-no-6542014-new-us-tariffs-imports-originating-or-eu_en.