Brussels – Saba:
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Sunday that the European Union will extend the suspension of counter-tariffs on U.S. goods until early August, despite Washington's decision to impose a 30% tariff on European products.
During a press conference, von der Leyen stated, "The United States has sent an official message outlining measures that will take effect unless an agreement is reached through negotiations."
She explained that the European Commission will use the available time until early August to pursue a negotiated solution and avoid reciprocal tariffs between the two sides.
This announcement follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement on Saturday, in which he declared his intention to impose 30% tariffs on imports from the EU and Mexico starting August 1, citing a "long-standing" trade deficit with the European bloc.
Trump indicated that the tariffs could be reduced if the EU or its member states choose to invest in manufacturing or production within the United States.
In response, von der Leyen affirmed that the EU is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect its interests, including imposing countermeasures if needed.
Similarly, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated in press remarks that the bloc has the "tools" to defend its interests, particularly by targeting the services sector exported by the U.S. to Europe, noting that Europe holds a strong position in this sector.
These developments come amid escalating trade tensions between the EU and the U.S., which includes disputes over steel and aluminum tariffs and the threat of additional duties on strategic sectors such as automobiles, aircraft, and pharmaceuticals.
The EU had previously suspended counter-tariffs on U.S. goods worth nearly €21 billion to allow room for a broader trade agreement with Washington. However, the latest U.S. announcement has reignited tensions between the two sides.
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