The European Commission has condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to increase tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the EU from 25 to 50 percent, labeling it regrettable and detrimental to the global economy.
EC spokesperson Olof Gill stated that the EU is prepared to enact retaliatory measures if no agreement is reached with the U.S.
“We strongly regret the announced increase in U.S. tariffs on steel from 25 to 50 percent. This decision heightens uncertainty in the global economy and raises costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” he remarked.
He highlighted that the EC had, in good faith, suspended its own retaliatory measures on April 14 to allow for further negotiations, but the EU is also concluding internal discussions on potential further actions.
“If a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, existing and new EU measures will automatically take effect on July 14 or sooner if necessary,” the spokesperson noted.
He affirmed that the EU is “prepared to defend its interests – safeguarding workers, consumers, and industry.”
Trump announced on Friday that tariffs on steel and aluminum imported into the U.S. would increase from June 4 from 25 to 50 percent. He emphasized that these additional charges would bolster the U.S. steel industry. According to the dpa agency, the U.S. was the world’s largest steel importer in 2024. (01.06.2025)
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