The European Commission is actively preparing potential trade measures against the United States, with a valuation of approximately 95 billion euros, as trade negotiations face uncertainty in 2025. These measures target a wide array of over 6,000 products, encompassing alcoholic beverages, agricultural goods, and motor vehicles.
These goods could be subjected to new tariffs if ongoing discussions between the EU and the U.S. fail to produce mutually advantageous results. The European Commission is also weighing the possibility of imposing restrictions on specific EU exports to the U.S., notably steel derivatives and chemical products, potentially affecting 4.4 billion euros worth of exports.
Brussels initiated a public consultation, set to conclude on June 10, to gather insights before the European Commission finalizes its definitive list. This list encompasses industrial products such as automobiles, electrical equipment, and aeronautical components, alongside food items and alcoholic beverages. The EU also intends to pursue a dispute with the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding reciprocal tariffs and tariffs on European vehicles, asserting their violation of WTO regulations.
While the European Commission has not yet filed a formal complaint, it stands ready to raise the issue with the WTO should consultations with the U.S. prove unfruitful. The EU aims to resolve trade disputes amicably but remains prepared to take further action if necessary. The unfolding of these measures holds the potential to significantly reshape transatlantic trade relations.