EU Vows Countermeasures After Trump Raises Steel Tariffs to 50%

EU Vows Countermeasures After Trump Raises Steel Tariffs to 50%

The European Union has strongly criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on steel imports from 25% to 50%, warning that the move could trigger retaliatory measures and further escalate transatlantic trade tensions.

“We deeply regret the U.S. decision to raise steel import tariffs,” an EU spokesperson said in a statement to NBC News. “This action undermines efforts to find a negotiated solution and injects more uncertainty into the global economy.”

The EU had previously paused its countermeasures on April 14 to allow room for negotiations. However, officials now say they are prepared to resume and expand those measures as early as July 14 — or sooner if necessary — unless a mutually acceptable agreement is reached.

The United Steelworkers union (USW) also voiced opposition, calling the move a “direct attack” on Canadian industries. Marty Warren, the National Director of USW in Canada, warned that thousands of jobs are at risk and called on Canada to respond “immediately and decisively.”

President Trump announced the tariff hike during a rally at U.S. Steel in Pennsylvania, where he also referenced the pending deal between Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel. He promised there would be no layoffs or outsourcing as part of the agreement, though the deal has not been finalized.

The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect on June 4, adding pressure to manufacturers who rely on imported steel for production.

Trump’s tariff plan also faces legal challenges. This week, the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked most of his country-specific tariffs, ruling that the administration had exceeded its authority. Though an appeals court temporarily paused that decision, the ruling casts doubt on Trump’s broader trade strategy.

The EU’s warning signals the potential for a renewed trade conflict unless both sides can return to the negotiating table in time to avoid further economic fallout.

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Source: CNBC