|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Brussels, 31 May 2025 — The European Union has voiced strong opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on steel and aluminium imports, a move that is expected to significantly impact European producers. The tariffs are set to rise from 25% to 50% for steel, and from 10% to 50% for aluminium, with the changes scheduled to come into effect on 4 June.
The announcement was made during a campaign rally at a U.S. steel plant, where Trump presented the measure as part of his broader push to bolster American industry and protect domestic jobs. “We’re doubling down on American steel and American jobs,” Trump told supporters, drawing applause from the crowd.
Shortly after the event, the White House confirmed that aluminium imports would also face the same tariff increase, citing concerns over national security and the need to counter what it described as “unfair trade practices.”
In response, the European Commission issued a statement expressing “strong regret” over the decision, warning that it could further strain transatlantic trade relations. “These tariffs are unjustified and counterproductive,” a Commission spokesperson said. “They hurt both U.S. and European industries and risk escalating into a trade conflict that benefits no one.”
European officials are reportedly considering a range of retaliatory measures, including filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization and introducing targeted tariffs on key American goods.
The transatlantic dispute over metal tariffs dates back to Trump’s previous term, when similar measures were imposed under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. While some of those tariffs were eased in recent years, the new escalation marks a sharp reversal and has raised concerns among U.S. allies and global markets alike.
Economists warn that the increased tariffs could lead to higher costs for manufacturers, supply chain disruptions, and retaliatory trade barriers. “This move adds significant uncertainty to global trade just as many economies are striving to recover from a turbulent economic period,” said Elena Marković, a trade analyst at the European Centre for Policy Studies.
As the implementation date approaches, EU leaders are calling for urgent dialogue to defuse tensions and prevent a full-blown trade dispute.
