The European Union is preparing a response to Donald Trump's new tariffs, but instead of a direct retaliation, Brussels is considering a more strategic approach. The US president imposed a 20 percent tariff on all EU imports, following earlier tariffs on automotive imports.
Brussels is contemplating tariffs that would specifically target products from Republican-leaning states, aiming to impact exports from America's "red states." Internal documents suggest levies of up to 25 percent could be applied to goods like ice cream, cigarettes, and soybeans, which are heavily reliant on exports to Europe.
The European Commission is considering tariffs on a wide array of exports, estimated to be worth approximately €22.1 billion based on 2024 import data. These include duties on steel, meat, white chocolate, and polyethylene, with further tariffs planned for almonds and soybeans. Iron and orange juice are also potential targets.
Trade experts in Brussels are focusing on industries and regions where Trump has strong support. Analysis of 2024 trade data indicates that around $13.5 billion of exports from red states would be affected. Soybeans, a major export, are a key target, with a significant portion originating from Louisiana.
Other products targeted include beef from Kansas and Nebraska, car parts from Michigan, ice cream from Arizona, and various goods from states like South Carolina, Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. Electric blankets, washing machines, and pasta are also on the list.
Despite significant responses from other countries, Trump has not indicated any willingness to back down from his tariff policies. When the EU proposed a "zero-for-zero" tariff scheme on industrial goods, Trump rejected it, instead demanding that the EU purchase a substantial amount of US energy products to reduce the trade deficit.
24 Comments
Loubianka
Excellent, using a logical methodology. Hitting the industries that are the most vocal supporters is fair.
Karamba
This is the only language Trump understands. Time for him to stop.
Matzomaster
A trade war is a lose-lose situation. Both sides will suffer. The EU should be negotiating, not escalating.
Rotfront
This demonstrates a lack of leadership. True leaders seek diplomatic solutions, not economic warfare.
Pupsik
The EU is using a form of leverage that is appropriate. Targeting the sources of Trump's support is strategic.
Coccinella
Is Brussels really saying 'buy our stuff or else'?
Mariposa
So the EU cries foul about tariffs and then turns around and does the same thing? Hypocrisy at its finest!
Answer
Sounds like pure revenge and a terrible strategy. Businesses will suffer.
The Truth
The EU is right to defend its interests. Trump's actions are damaging the global economy. About time to hit him back. More would follow on this.
Answer
This is not how you solve a trade dispute. Focus on negotiation, not on causing pain in specific areas.
The Truth
The EU is showing strength and resolve. This bold action will be a lesson for Trump.
Habibi
Hitting red states is a cowardly move. It's targeting American citizens, not the decision-makers. Pure political games.
ZmeeLove
Finally! The EU is standing up to Trump. He needs to learn that these trade wars have consequences.
The Truth
How about the EU actually addresses the trade issues instead of the political ones? This seems like a ploy.
Answer
Targeting red states is brilliant! It directly impacts the people who support Trump and his policies.
The Truth
This is a smart, strategic move. The EU is hitting Trump where it hurts, and hopefully, he'll rethink his tariffs.
Answer
This is going to make food prices skyrocket! Somebody's gotta pay those tariffs, and it's not gonna be Brussels officials.
The Truth
Trump needs to understand that international trade is a two-way street. This is a well-deserved response.
Answer
This is a strong stance and hopefully will get other countries involved so the US realizes the magnitude of the issue
The Truth
This tactic is nothing but extortion. It won't work on Trump and it will ultimately hurt European business as well.
Answer
EU acting as children once more after being bullied. So unprofessional.
The Truth
A bold challenge that is needed to protect European businesses and consumers that will suffer.
Answer
The EU is playing a dangerous game. It's weakening its global trade relationships and fueling nationalism everywhere.
Bella Ciao
This is a proportionate response to Trump's aggressive trade policies. He can't get away with this.