EU criticizes U.S. tariffs, vows to ‘respond firmly’ if targeted

by | Feb 3, 2025 | Family | 0 comments

On Sunday, the European Commission condemned US President Donald Trump’s tariffs imposed on three countries, saying they disrupt global trade and affect everyone, and vowed to retaliate if targeted. “The European Union (EU) regrets the U.S. decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China,” an EU spokesman told local media. He emphasized the need of “open markets and respect for international trade rules,” which he believes are necessary for strong and sustainable economic growth. “Tariffs cause unneeded economic disruption and increase inflation. “They are harmful to all sides,” he added. Regarding prospective US tariffs on EU imports, the spokesman stated, “The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods.”

He emphasized the need of “open markets and respect for international trade rules,” which he believes are necessary for strong and sustainable economic growth. “Tariffs cause unneeded economic disruption and increase inflation. “They are harmful to all sides,” he added. Regarding prospective US tariffs on EU imports, the spokesman stated, “The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods.” “Our trade and investment relationship with the United States is the world’s largest. He was cited as adding, “There’s a lot at stake.” Since Trump’s second term began, Brussels has been arguing that the two sides should focus on improving the current transatlantic partnerships and avoiding a trade dispute with Washington through negotiation. However, Trump doubled down on his plan by saying he would “absolutely” impose tariffs on the EU goods.

On Saturday, Trump issued an executive order imposing a 10% duty on Chinese imports and a 25% levy on goods from Mexico and Canada. The move has sparked massive protest and rapid response. In response, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced Sunday that it will submit a complaint with the World Trade Organization and take appropriate countermeasures to protect its rights and interests. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated on Saturday that a 25% charge will be imposed on $21 billion in American goods beginning Tuesday. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has directed the Secretariat of the Economy to implement tariff and non-tariff measures to protect Mexico’s interests.

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