On Friday, EU Trade Commissioner Marosz Szefczovicz announced that he had a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. During the discussion, he expressed that the tariffs imposed by the United States are unjust and detrimental.
Szefczovicz took to platform X to share details about the two-hour “candid” conversation.
He emphasized the need for a fresh approach to trade relations between the European Union and the United States, stating that while the EU is ready for constructive negotiations, it is also prepared to protect its own interests. “We remain in contact,” he noted.
Prior to this, Szefczovicz had visited Washington twice to engage in discussions with Lutnick and Greer regarding EU-U.S. trade relations and the avoidance of tariffs. His most recent trip occurred earlier last week, after which he traveled to China for additional trade discussions.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump signed a directive imposing “reciprocal tariffs” of at least 10 percent on imported goods, with a 20 percent tariff specifically targeting EU products. These rates aim to account for half of the tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers levied by other nations. Tariffs for China will be set at 34 percent (to be added to the existing 20 percent tariffs, totaling 54 percent), while Japan will face a 24 percent tariff, India 26 percent, and South Korea 25 percent. Additionally, the previously announced 25 percent tariffs on cars and car parts went into effect late Wednesday night. (04.05.2025)
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