“We do not want to have to apply countermeasures to U.S. imports to the EU as we believe this is counterproductive for everyone. It is not good for us and is an act of economic self-harm by the United States,” said Olof Gill, spokesperson for the European Commission’s Trade Department.
Addressing questions at a European Commission press conference in Brussels on the American President Donald Trump’s announcement, Gill emphasized, “Our priority is to find a negotiated solution that works for both parties, for the EU and the United States, and one that strengthens our trade and economic relationship, which is by far the most valuable and important in the world – we want to build on this relationship, not destroy it.”
“We believe the measures announced by the United States are going in the completely wrong direction,” he added.
Gill promised a “firm, proportionate, robust, well-calibrated, and timely response to any unfair and counterproductive measures by the United States,” although he declined to specify when this reaction would be announced or which specific products could be covered by the EU’s countermeasures.
On Wednesday, Donald Trump announced the imposition of a 25% tariff on all imported cars, estimating that the measure, effective April 2, would generate revenues of 0 billion (€93 billion).
In the EU, these new tariffs mostly impact the German automotive industry.
The Portuguese Automobile Association stated today that the country is not directly affected by the U.S. import tariff on cars, as its exports are mainly directed to the EU, but warned of a “domino effect” on the global economy.
On Wednesday evening, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed regret over the U.S. announcement and assured that the EU bloc would protect its interests against these tariffs and any others that may emerge.
The European Union is preparing for tensions in the relationship with Donald Trump’s new administration, especially concerning trade tariffs, given the recent announcements.
Previously, the U.S. President announced 25% tariffs imposed on EU steel and aluminum.
Several leaders have already affirmed that the EU is ready for tough negotiations with the United States, but uncertainty looms within the EU about the transatlantic relationship, which may be affected by this new economic and trade policy of the U.S. administration.
The European Commission holds the competence of the EU’s trade policy.
