EU Announces Countermeasures to US Tariffs

European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maros Sefcovic, has confirmed that the EU will implement its first package of countermeasures against United States tariffs on April 15. A decisive vote on these measures is scheduled for April 9, with a second phase expected by May 15. Sefcovic emphasized the urgency of the EU's response, highlighting a strong show of unity among member states' trade ministers.

Strategic Response to US Tariffs

The US tariffs impact approximately 70% of EU exports, valued at €380 billion. Despite this, the EU is not mirroring the US's "dollar for dollar" approach. Sefcovic assured that "all options" are being considered, with ongoing consultations with stakeholders and member states to utilize every available instrument. The EU also stands firm on maintaining its value-added tax (VAT), countering the US administration's view of it as a "non-tariff barrier."