The European Commission has received the support of EU member states to impose tariffs of up to 30% on imports from the US if no trade deal is reached, “Politico“ reported, citing two European diplomats, BTA reports.
The diplomats specify that not all American products will be taxed at the maximum 30%, with the list of specific goods still being specified.
When voting on the measures, only Hungary expressed an objection, but the decision was adopted by a qualified majority. The retaliatory tariffs will not come into effect immediately, but are being postponed until August 7 to allow for an agreement with the United States.
European Commission trade spokesman Olof Gill said at a daily briefing that the Commission reserves the right to postpone the application of the tariffs beyond August 7 if negotiations require more time. He stressed that "the EU is focused on finding an agreed solution with the US", but declined to comment on the specific progress in the talks.
Tensions have risen after US President Donald Trump sent a letter threatening a 30% tariff on all EU imports if the two sides do not reach a trade agreement by August 1.
Intensive negotiations are currently underway between Brussels and Washington. The introduction of a basic US tariff of 15% is being discussed. In the same context, Trump announced yesterday, July 23, that he had reached a similar agreement with Japan.