EU criticizes Trump’s “reciprocal” trade policy, vows retaliation against tariffs

The European Commission has sharply criticized US President Donald Trump’s proposed “reciprocal” trade policy, calling it a step in the wrong direction and warning of immediate retaliation against unjustified tariffs.

In a statement issued today, the Commission reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to an open and predictable global trading system, highlighting its historically low tariffs and extensive network of trade agreements. According to EU officials, imposing tariffs on European exports would ultimately harm American businesses and consumers by increasing costs, stifling growth, and fueling inflation.

“Tariffs are taxes. By imposing them, the US is taxing its own citizens, raising costs for businesses, and disrupting global market efficiency,” the statement read. The EU pointed out that over 70% of its imports enter at zero tariffs and that its average applied tariff remains among the lowest in the world.

The Commission further emphasized that decades of economic integration and free trade have been key to the EU’s economic success. It also noted that the EU has negotiated and concluded more than three times as many trade agreements as the U.S., reinforcing its global leadership in open trade.

EU officials expressed concern that President Trump’s policy threatens to undermine long-standing international commitments to reducing trade barriers. “World trade has flourished under predictable, transparent rules and low tariffs. The U.S. is now undermining these commitments,” the statement continued.

The EU warned that it would respond “firmly and immediately” to any unjustified US trade barriers, vowing to protect European businesses, workers, and consumers.