EU Commission ‘Strongly’ Regrets Trump’s Threat To Increase U.S. Steel Tariffs | EUROtoday

The European Commission stated on Saturday that it “strongly” regrets an introduced improve of U.S. tariffs on metal imports and that the European Union is ready to impose countermeasures.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday he deliberate to extend tariffs on imported metal and aluminum to 50% from 25%, placing extra strain on international metal producers and deepening his commerce battle.

“We strongly regret the announced increase of U.S. tariffs on steel imports from 25% to 50%,” a European Commission spokesperson stated in an emailed assertion.

“This decision adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” the spokesperson stated, including that “the tariff increase also undermines ongoing efforts to reach a negotiated solution”.

The spokesperson famous that the European Union had paused its countermeasures to create area for continued negotiations.

“The EU is prepared to impose countermeasures, including in response to the latest U.S. tariff increase,” the spokesperson stated.

“The European Commission is currently finalising consultations on expanded countermeasures. If no mutually acceptable solution is reached, both existing and additional EU measures will automatically take effect on 14 July — or earlier, if circumstances require,” they added.