The European Union is preparing to introduce retaliatory tariffs of up to 25% on a broad range of U.S. imports, in response to Washington’s duties on European steel and aluminum, according to a leaked document obtained by AFP.
If approved, the tariffs would target a wide array of American goods, including soybeans, poultry, rice, corn, fruit, wood, motorcycles, plastics, textiles, electrical appliances, and cosmetic products. Most of the duties are expected to come into effect by mid-May, with some set to follow in December.
The EU’s move comes as a direct response to ongoing U.S. trade protectionism, a policy championed by former President Donald Trump and sustained under current policy directions. Despite the hardline stance, the EU appears to be exercising strategic restraint, choosing not to immediately retaliate against the newly proposed 20% blanket tariffs on European goods.
One notable exclusion from the preliminary retaliation list is bourbon whiskey, a product spared following lobbying efforts from major wine exporters in France and Italy. These countries expressed concern over Trump’s previous threats to impose 200% tariffs on European alcoholic beverages, which could damage their multi-billion-euro wine industry.
The unfolding trade dispute underscores the rising economic friction between Brussels and Washington, and signals possible turbulence for transatlantic commerce in the coming months.
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