Trump threatens 50% tariffs: EU demands unit in the trade dispute!

Trump threatens 50% tariffs: EU demands unit in the trade dispute!

On May 24, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced that it will raise additional tariffs of 50 percent on goods from the European Union. This development alerted the industrial association (IV), which, however, shows itself in a waiting attitude. Christoph Neumayer, General Secretary of the IV, emphasizes the seriousness of the announcements, but warns that such measures could be perceived as intimidation. He demands a united and determined appearance of the EU to the US authorities.

Neumayer sees the need to continue dialogue with the USA. He and the IV emphasize that the EU should determine its interests and make a moderate reaction. In addition, it is warned that a trade war only knows losers and escalations must be avoided.

consequences and strategies of the EU

The global economy and numerous companies are under pressure, not least due to the US tariffs and the associated uncertainty. This is a central topic that was also discussed in the debates of the European Parliament after Trump's re -election in November 2024. The MPs called for a continuation of transatlantic cooperation. In a debate, Adam Szłapka, the Polish Minister of European Affairs, emphasized the advantages of open and fair trade. At the same time, Maroš Šefčovič from the European Commission emphasized the harmful effects of US tariffs on companies and consumers.

Bernd Lange, Chairman of the Committee on International Trade, pointed out the possibility of counter -tariffs, while Sophie Wilmès, deputy chair of the parliamentary delegation for relationships with the United States, emphasized the importance of deterrent. In view of the impending tariffs, the diversification of trading partners is also considered necessary. The EU should strive for new trade agreements, especially with countries such as India, Mexico and Australia. Existing agreements such as the Mercosur Agreement could help support these strategies.

historical context of trade conflicts

trade wars are not a new phenomenon and can be guided by high tariffs and business boy cottages without military violence. As * Planet know *, many historical conflicts were also conducted from economic motives. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's drama aptly describes that war, trade and piracy are inseparable. Trade wars often achieve an escalation that damages everyone involved without there being a clear winning page.

An example from history is the continental lock, which Napoleon initiated in 1806 in response to trade disputes with Great Britain. This led to a number of high tariffs and reactions, which significantly impaired trade relationships between the countries. Similar dynamics can also be recognized in today's geopolitical landscape.

In order to avoid future conflicts, it is important that the EU not only diversifies its business, but also rethink existing agreements such as the Mercosur. Neumayer's statement about the need for a determined occurrence shows that the challenges that the EU is facing are both complex and complex.