EU Hits Back at US Tariffs with $45 Billion in Countermeasures

The European Union has announced $45 billion (€26 billion) in retaliatory tariffs on US goods following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports.

Set to take effect on April 1, the EU’s measures will impact a wide range of American exports, including steel, aluminum, textiles, home appliances, and agricultural products such as poultry, beef, seafood, nuts, eggs, and sugar.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the tariffs, warning they would increase prices for consumers and disrupt supply chains in both the US and Europe.

Trade tensions between the US and EU continue to escalate, with Washington recently warning Europe about future security responsibilities. The United States remains a key export market for European steel, accounting for 16% of EU steel exports. Experts warn the EU could lose 3.7 million tonnes of steel exports, worsening an already struggling industry.

While the EU takes action, the UK has opted out of imposing retaliatory tariffs, calling the US decision “disappointing.” Despite the trade dispute, von der Leyen emphasized that the EU remains open to negotiations.