U.S. President Donald Trump's proposal to impose 50% tariffs on European Union goods has drawn sharp criticism from EU officials, raising concerns about the future of transatlantic trade relations. The announcement, made via Trump's Truth Social platform on Friday, accused the EU of "taking advantage of the United States" and declared plans to implement the tariffs starting June 2025 if elected.
European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic swiftly responded on social media, emphasizing that "trade must be guided by mutual respect, not threats." The EU remains committed to negotiations but warned against unilateral demands, with Bernd Lange of the European Parliament's Trade Committee stating: "If Trump wants cooperation, our doors are open. For rubber-stamping demands? Wrong door."
The tension comes as EU-U.S. trade talks stall, with Washington pushing for market access concessions while Brussels seeks balanced terms. Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin called the proposal "enormously disappointing," noting it risks damaging one of the world's most significant trading relationships. German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche added: "Tariff conflicts know no winners – both sides lose equally."
French trade delegate Laurent Saint-Martin cautioned that while the EU prefers de-escalation, it would take "retaliatory measures if necessary" to protect its interests. Analysts warn the proposed tariffs could disrupt global supply chains and inflate consumer prices on both sides of the Atlantic.
