European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made significant statements following the US decision to impose a new 30 percent customs duty on EU products. Von der Leyen stated that negotiations with the US regarding tariffs are ongoing, but if an agreement cannot be reached, the EU will retaliate.
US President Donald Trump's announcement that he would introduce new tariffs on products imported from the EU starting August 1 has increased tensions in transatlantic trade relations.
Von der Leyen expressed that this decision would have negative consequences for businesses and consumers in both Europe and America.
Emphasizing that the EU has fair trade practices, von der Leyen said, "The EU has always preferred negotiated solutions." However, she added that they would take proportionate countermeasures to protect the EU's interests if necessary.
The Trump administration had previously imposed high tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from EU countries. In a new tariff letter sent today, it was reported that a 30 percent customs duty would be applied to all products coming from the EU starting August 1.
The European Commission conducts trade negotiations on behalf of member states and is currently continuing its talks to reach an agreement with the US on this matter.
News Source: 12punto
