EU strikes back: Tough tariffs on US products from April!

EU strikes back: Tough tariffs on US products from April!

Tensions in international trade are increasing dramatically! On March 12, 2025, US President Donald Trump imposed 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which heated up tempers around the world. The US justifies this step with the alleged threat to national security and accuses China of flooding the market with cheap metal. The focus of the tariffs is not only on Canada, but also on the European Union, Mexico and Brazil. The capitals are concerned because the EU reacts immediately with its own retaliatory measures.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that additional tariffs will be introduced on US products such as whiskey, motorcycles and boats from April. These countermeasures are intended to protect EU exports to the USA, the protocols of which are at acute risk due to the new customs policy - a waiting game that is unsettling the markets as well Focus reports. Trade relations are at a critical stage as the EU already faces €26 billion in exports affected by the new tariffs. The consequences could lead to hefty price increases for consumer goods in Europe, and Trump also announced that he would lift or increase “reciprocal” tariffs by April 2nd.

International reactions and uncertainties

The British government expressed disappointment about the tariffs, but is not planning any immediate countermeasures, while in Canada and Australia the economic consequences appear to be clearly manageable. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who has just succeeded Justin Trudeau, maintains that Canada will not become part of the USA. In view of the increased trade tensions, there is also uncertainty about the implementation of existing agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (USMCA). The pressure on markets could lead to an economic downturn - a problem that has both investors and consumers on edge.

There is great confusion and uncertainty on the financial markets is increasing. The announced changes to customs regulations and the threat of new tariffs are worrying global trading conditions and could have a lasting impact on relationships with important trading partners. How ORF reported that the US is not seeing an immediate reduction in tariffs, while at the same time pressure to take additional retaliatory measures remains high. International trade is facing a turning point - all eyes are now on the next steps.