The European Commission is preparing a response to the potential imposition of new US tariffs on EU goods, without setting strict limitations for itself.
If Washington imposes 25% tariffs on European cars on April 2, Brussels may respond not only with symmetrical measures but also with additional restrictions on American goods and services, El País reports, citing a source within European institutions.
Previously, in February, US President Donald Trump had already imposed 25% tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum, including those from the EU. In March, he announced his intention to extend a similar tariff to cars manufactured outside the United States. Additionally, the American leader threatened further trade barriers for the EU and Canada if they collaborated in countering US tariffs. According to media reports, the EU expects the introduction of uniform “double-digit” tariffs as early as April 2.
As El País notes, if the US follows through with its plans, it could sharply escalate the trade conflict with unpredictable consequences. Brussels is considering a wide range of possible actions. In addition to reciprocal tariffs, the European Union may block access to its market for certain American goods and services, as well as prohibit US companies from participating in government contract tenders and projects funded by the EU budget.
However, there is growing concern within the EU about the potential escalation of the trade dispute. Several countries, including France, Italy, and Ireland, are urging the European Commission to carefully review the list of American products subject to countermeasures to avoid a severe impact on the European economy.
Moreover, Brussels fears that some EU member states may begin acting independently to protect their key industrial sectors. This could undermine the unity of the European bloc. As a source told El País, “If Trump succeeds in breaking EU unity, it will be the end of the Union.”
