Brussels willing to accept the universal 10% tariff on exports to the United States
Brussels and the European Union have expressed willingness to accept a universal 10% tariff on a wide range of exports to the United States as part of an effort to ease tensions with the Trump administration. However, Brussels remains firm on negotiating lower tariff rates for certain key strategic industries to protect their competitiveness.
According to a report by Bloomberg, EU officials are particularly focused on securing reduced duties for exports in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, alcohol, semiconductors, and aerospace. These industries are considered vital not only for economic reasons but also for their strategic importance in global supply chains.
The move comes amid ongoing trade disputes between the two economic powerhouses, with Brussels seeking to avoid further escalation while preserving its core economic interests. Negotiations are expected to continue as both sides aim for a balanced resolution that could prevent a broader trade war.
European negotiators are also pushing for the establishment of quotas and exemptions aimed at effectively reducing the U.S. tariffs of 25% on automobiles and their components, as well as the 50% duties on steel and aluminum.
The European Commission, which leads trade negotiations on behalf of the 27 member states, acknowledges that the proposed agreement slightly favors the United States but considers the terms still acceptable. The deadline set by Donald Trump for reaching a deal is July 9, after which reciprocal tariffs could come into effect.
Brussels is racing against the clock to finalize terms that would prevent a full-scale trade escalation, while striving to protect key European industries from the most damaging impacts of the ongoing tariff disputes.
