Brussels/Stockholm – EU member states have overwhelmingly agreed to respond to U.S. tariffs, while also leaving open the possibility of de-escalating the trade conflict at any moment.
Nearly all member nations, including Sweden, have expressed their support, with Hungary being the only exception.
Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated to TT that “it was essential for the EU to make this decision with a strong consensus.”
He added, “The EU’s response is proportional. We aim to avoid harming trade while demonstrating that the EU is a significant and influential trading bloc, and we remain open to negotiations with the U.S. We will see how this unfolds.”
Kristersson emphasized that “the EU must ensure it doesn’t undermine our own interests in Europe.”
“Therefore, we are taking a measured approach, imposing tariffs mainly on products that consumers can easily substitute with alternatives.”
According to leaked reports, the EU plans to levy tariffs on approximately 1,600 U.S. goods. Notably, kaolin, which is vital for Swedish industry, will be exempt, as confirmed by the Swedish government.
This exemption is seen as a success for Sweden’s stance, according to Minister for Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa.
“Amid the challenges posed by American trade policy, Sweden has secured a victory,” Dousa remarked, highlighting the government’s close collaboration with the business sector on this matter.
(April 9)
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