Brussels, March 12, 2025 (Xinhua) – In response to the United States’ imposition of steel and aluminum tariffs that took effect today, the European Union has announced a package of countermeasures, preparing to levy retaliatory tariffs on US goods imported into the EU, totaling €26 billion.
The move marks a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two economic powerhouses, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global trade flows and the stability of the international trading system.
According to a statement released by the European Commission, the EU’s retaliatory measures will be implemented in two phases. The initial phase, set to begin soon, will target a range of US products with tariffs. The specific goods included in this first wave and the tariff rates remain to be detailed.
The EU’s decision to retaliate underscores its firm stance against what it perceives as unfair trade practices by the US. The steel and aluminum tariffs, initially imposed under the premise of national security concerns, have been widely criticized by the EU and other countries as protectionist measures that distort the market and harm global trade.
The EU believes in free and fair trade, and we will defend our interests against unfair trade practices, stated a spokesperson for the European Commission. The US tariffs are unjustified and harmful, and we have no choice but to respond in a proportionate and WTO-compliant manner.
The potential impact of these retaliatory tariffs on businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic remains to be seen. Experts warn that the escalating trade dispute could lead to higher prices, reduced competitiveness, and slower economic growth.
The EU’s countermeasures represent a calculated response to the US tariffs, signaling its determination to protect its economic interests and uphold the principles of free and fair trade. However, the long-term consequences of this trade dispute are uncertain, and the need for constructive dialogue and negotiation to resolve the underlying issues remains paramount.
References:
- Xinhua News Agency. (2025, March 12). 欧盟公布一揽子反制措施报复美国钢铝关税 [EU Announces Package of Countermeasures to Retaliate Against US Steel and Aluminum Tariffs]. Retrieved from [Original URL of the Xinhua News Article]
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