European Union difficult to deal with: Trump proposes 50 per cent tariff on EU imports

ANI May 23, 2025 248 views

Trump has proposed a 50% tariff on all EU imports, citing unfair trade practices. He claims the EU has created barriers costing the US $250 billion annually. Von der Leyen had earlier welcomed tariff pauses as a step toward economic stability. The EU remains committed to open trade negotiations with the US.

"The European Union... has been very difficult to deal with." – Donald Trump
Washington DC, May 23: US President Donald Trump has proposed a sweeping 50 per cent tariff on all imports from the European Union, effective June 1.

Key Points

1

Trump accuses EU of unfair trade barriers

2

Proposes 50% tariff effective June 2025

3

Von der Leyen previously welcomed tariff pauses

4

EU seeks frictionless trade with US

Trump accused the EU of taking advantage of the United States through what he described as "powerful trade barriers."

Sharing a post on social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, "The European Union, which was formed for the primary purpose of taking advantage of the United States on trade, has been very difficult to deal with. Their powerful Trade Barriers, VAT taxes, ridiculous Corporate Penalties, Non-Monetary Trade Barriers, Monetary Manipulations, unfair and unjustified lawsuits against American companies, and more, have led to a Trade Deficit with the US of more than $250,000,000 a year, a number which is totally unacceptable. Our discussions with them are going nowhere."

He added, "Therefore, I am recommending a straight 50% Tariff on the European Union, starting on June 1, 2025. There is no Tariff if the product is built or manufactured in the United States. Thank you for your attention to this matter."

Last month, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed US President Donald Trump's announcement to pause reciprocal tariffs for dozens of countries, calling it a necessary move to help stabilise the global economy amid intensifying trade tensions between the United States and China.

"I welcome President Trump's announcement to pause reciprocal tariffs. It's an important step towards stabilising the global economy," von der Leyen posted on X on April 10.

"Clear, predictable conditions are essential for trade and supply chains to function. Tariffs are taxes that only hurt businesses and consumers. That's why I've consistently advocated for a zero-for-zero tariff agreement between the European Union and the United States," she added.

Von der Leyen had also reaffirmed the EU's long-standing commitment to maintaining open, fair trade. "The European Union remains committed to constructive negotiations with the United States, with the goal of achieving frictionless and mutually beneficial trade," she wrote.

"At the same time, Europe continues to focus on diversifying its trade partnerships, engaging with countries that account for 87 per cent of global trade and share our commitment to a free and open exchange of goods, services, and ideas," she added.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments on the EU-US trade tensions:
R
Rahul K.
Trump's tariff threats are worrying for global trade stability. As an Indian exporter, I fear such protectionist measures might spread to other regions. The EU and US should resolve differences through dialogue rather than economic warfare. Our own trade deals with both blocs could get affected.
P
Priya M.
Interesting timing! Just when India is negotiating trade deals with EU, this happens. Maybe we should be cautious about depending too much on either bloc. Atmanirbhar Bharat makes more sense than ever 🇮🇳
A
Amit S.
Both sides have valid points. EU does have complex regulations that disadvantage foreign companies. But 50% tariff is too harsh! This will hurt common people through higher prices. Hope Modi government learns from this - we need balanced trade policies that protect Indian interests without going to extremes.
S
Sanjay T.
Trump is right about one thing - trade should be fair. But his methods are too aggressive. Remember when US suddenly removed GSP benefits for India? We should strengthen our domestic manufacturing and diversify trade partners to avoid such shocks.
N
Neha P.
As someone working in auto components industry, I see both opportunity and risk here. If EU products become expensive in US, maybe American companies will source more from India? But trade wars never end well for anyone. Fingers crossed 🤞
V
Vikram D.
Western trade wars always make headlines, but we should focus on strengthening our regional trade with neighbors first. SAARC countries and ASEAN are more important for India's long-term economic growth than distant EU or US markets. Local first, global later!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Trump EU tariffs trade war US-Europe relations Ursula von der Leyen