Macron Urges EU to Defend European Interests Against Trump Tariffs

The French president, Emmanuel Macron, has called on the EU to defend European interests resolutely after Donald Trump threatened to impose 30% tariffs on nearly all imports from the EU. Macron emphasized the need for the EU to be prepared for a trade war and to stand up to the US president. He urged the EU to accelerate the preparation of credible countermeasures if no agreement is reached by 1 August.

While some European leaders called for calm, Macron's call for trade war readiness contrasted with Berlin's call for a pragmatic response. Other leaders, including Italy's Giorgia Meloni, the Netherlands' Dick Schoof, and Ireland's Simon Harris, expressed hopes for a fair agreement and emphasized the importance of unity within the EU.

The threat of a 30% tariff is seen as a negotiating tactic, causing concern among industry leaders and officials. Trump's latest move follows his previous claims of unfair duties imposed by the EU on US imports. Ambassadors are set to meet in Brussels to discuss tactics before a scheduled summit of trade ministers.

Germany's automotive industry warned about rising costs for carmakers and suppliers, while the steel industry faces punitive tariffs. The potential tariff relief offered to European car manufacturers with plants in the US has raised concerns and sparked discussions about the impact on various sectors.

EU-US trade is significant, with Germany, Italy, and Ireland being major exporters to the US. Industry leaders are calling for calm and support for companies in the event of higher tariffs.

According to the source: The Guardian.