Macron Strongly Opposes US Tariffs, Urges EU Countermeasures
Macron condemns US tariffs on EU goods, calls for strong EU response.
Key Points
- • Macron disapproves of proposed 30% US tariffs on EU goods.
- • EU urged to prepare countermeasures as negotiations continue.
- • Sectoral impacts expected due to dependence on US exports.
- • EU Commission ready to enact proportional responses.
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his "very strong disapproval" of the United States' decision to impose a 30% tariff on European Union products, which is set to take effect on August 1, 2025. In a statement, Macron called for the EU to "resolutely defend European interests" and urged the European Commission to prepare credible countermeasures should negotiations with the US fail.
The tariffs, announced by former President Donald Trump, have raised significant concerns among EU officials and businesses. Macron emphasized that the EU has been negotiating in good faith, aiming for a mutually beneficial agreement that acknowledges the integrated nature of supply chains between Europe and the US. He fully supports the European Commission's efforts in this regard and insists on the need for quick and effective responses if diplomacy does not yield results.
Laurent Saint-Martin, France's Trade Minister, suggested that France may consider a "proportionate response" targeting American products if Brussels cannot secure an equitable arrangement with the US. This situation comes amid a notable trade deficit for the US with the EU, which stood at $236 billion in 2024, reflecting a 13% increase from the previous year.
Economists have voiced concerns over the tariffs' implications, particularly Thierry Mayer, who stated, "There will be a strong impact on volumes in certain sectors." Companies that heavily depend on exports to the US are expected to face major disruptions. For instance, Léa Marie, CEO of 'Slip Français,' acknowledged a decrease in orders from American clients, showing that the tariffs have already begun to affect trade.
As the EU contemplates its response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the bloc's desire for a commercial agreement, highlighting the need for a united front against the unilateral trade measures from the US. The EU is prepared to enact proportional countermeasures, demonstrating a commitment to protecting its economic interests in the face of these new tariffs.
The situation remains fluid, with continuous negotiations expected in the coming weeks as the August 1 deadline approaches, leaving many in the EU anxious about the potential consequences of these tariffs on their economies.