
EU Strikes Back: Retaliatory Tariffs Approved Against U.S. Imports
The European Union has officially approved its first set of retaliatory tariffs against U.S. imports, escalating tensions in the ongoing trade war initiated by former President Donald Trump's administration. The move comes as a direct response to the U.S. imposing tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which were justified on national security grounds.
The EU's decision was unanimous among its member states, signaling a united front against what they perceive as unfair trade practices. The approved tariffs target a range of American products, including iconic items like Harley-Davidson motorcycles and bourbon whiskey. This action is seen as a strategic move to pressure the U.S. into reconsidering its tariff policies.
Analysts predict that these retaliatory measures could further strain transatlantic relations and impact global trade dynamics. The U.S. has yet to respond officially to the EU's latest move, but the situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the complexities of international trade law and diplomacy.
Related issues news
What is the EU tariff on US cars?
The EU charges average tariffs of just 1.6 percent on U.S. non-agricultural products, on a trade-weighted basis. But it does charge a higher tariff of 10 percent on imported American cars — although the U.S. is the only G7 country that still pays it because TTIP wasn't concluded.
Did the EU have tariffs on US goods?
European Union officials have approved imposing a fresh set of retaliatory duties on U.S. imports. The duties, which would come into effect April 15, would range from 10% to 25% on more than $24 billion worth of U.S. goods, including tobacco, motorcycles, poultry, steel and aluminum.