Economy

EU Proposes Zero Tariffs on Industrial Goods to US, Ready to Counter if Needed

EU's Bold Move on Tariffs

In a significant development, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the European Union's offer of "zero-for-zero" tariffs on industrial goods to the United States. This proposal marks a pivotal moment in EU-US trade relations.

Prepared for All Outcomes

Von der Leyen emphasized the EU's readiness to negotiate a favorable deal but also its preparedness to implement countermeasures if necessary. The establishment of an "Import Surveillance Task Force" was highlighted as a step to safeguard the EU's interests against potential indirect tariff impacts.

Strengthening and Diversifying Trade

The EU aims to bolster its single market and diversify its trade engagements, with a focus on the vast majority of global trade outside the US. "We will focus, like a laser beam, on the 83% of global trade that is beyond the US," von der Leyen stated, outlining a clear strategy for future trade negotiations.