EU Vows Retaliation Over Trump’s Tariffs, Targets Bourbon, Jeans & Motorcycles/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The European Union has vowed to retaliate against President Donald Trump’s new tariffs on steel and aluminum, warning that iconic U.S. exports like bourbon, jeans, and motorcycles could face countermeasures. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the tariffs “bad for business and worse for consumers”, pledging that the 27-nation bloc will act swiftly if the tariffs take effect on March 12. Germany and other EU leaders have signaled unity in resisting what they call an unjustified trade war, while the U.S. insists the move will protect domestic industries from foreign competition.
EU Vows Retaliation Over Trump’s New Tariffs: Quick Looks
- Trump imposed a 25% tariff on foreign steel and aluminum, aiming to protect U.S. manufacturers.
- EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen warned of firm countermeasures, saying trade wars hurt both sides.
- Targeted U.S. exports could include bourbon, jeans, motorcycles, peanut butter, and whiskey.
- Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz pledged EU unity, stating the bloc will react if necessary.
- The EU estimates that transatlantic trade is worth $1.5 trillion, with both sides having significant economic stakes.
- Despite tensions, EU officials expressed willingness to negotiate, but vowed to protect European industries and workers.
EU Prepares to Retaliate as Trump Imposes Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum
Trump’s Tariffs Spark Outrage in Europe
The European Union is preparing to retaliate after President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on steel and aluminum, a move that threatens to reignite trade tensions between the U.S. and Europe.
- The tariffs, set at 25%, aim to shield U.S. steelmakers from foreign competition.
- EU leaders see the move as an unfair trade barrier, warning that they will respond proportionally.
- Von der Leyen stressed that the EU will “act to safeguard its economic interests”, adding that trade wars ultimately hurt both sides.
“Tariffs are taxes—bad for business, worse for consumers,” von der Leyen said in a statement.
EU’s Potential Retaliation: Bourbon, Motorcycles, and More
Just as it did during Trump’s first presidency, the EU is considering tariffs on key U.S. exports that could target states with strong Republican support.
According to Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s trade committee, likely U.S. targets include:
- Bourbon and whiskey – A major industry in Kentucky, home of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell.
- Jeans – A staple of U.S. fashion exports.
- Motorcycles – Harley-Davidson, an American icon, was previously targeted in past tariff disputes.
- Peanut butter – A uniquely American-made export, widely sold in European supermarkets.
Germany Warns of Economic Fallout
Germany, the EU’s largest economy, has warned the U.S. of consequences if tariffs proceed.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz told parliament:
“If the U.S. leaves us no other choice, the European Union will react united.”
“Trade wars cost both sides prosperity.”
Economic Stakes: $1.5 Trillion in Trade at Risk
- In 2023, trade in goods between the U.S. and EU reached $878 billion, with a $161 billion EU surplus.
- Trade in services was worth $710 billion, with the U.S. holding a $107 billion surplus.
This deep economic interdependence raises concerns that escalating tariffs could disrupt major industries on both sides of the Atlantic.
EU Open to Talks, But Ready to Defend Itself
Despite its strong opposition to Trump’s tariffs, the EU has signaled openness to negotiations.
“We remain committed to constructive dialogue,” said EU Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič.
“But we will protect our workers, businesses, and consumers.”
Šefčovič warned that Trump’s tariffs are “economically counterproductive” and could harm global supply chains.
What Happens Next?
- If Trump’s tariffs take effect on March 12, the EU is expected to impose retaliatory measures immediately.
- Both sides may enter negotiations, though past trade disputes suggest talks could be lengthy and contentious.
- U.S. exporters of bourbon, jeans, and motorcycles may face significant financial losses if the EU follows through with its countermeasures.
With transatlantic trade tensions rising, businesses and consumers on both sides could soon feel the impact of another Trump-era trade war.
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