The European Union has rejected the new US tariff increase, urging the United States to uphold last year’s EU-U.S. trade agreement. The EU issued a statement today after Donald Trump increased minimum tariffs from 10 to 15 percent, a day after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Donald Trump’s global tariffs.
The European Commission, which negotiates trade policy for all 27 EU member states, called on Washington to provide “full clarity” on its next steps following the ruling.
After the court decision on Friday, Trump imposed temporary across-the-board tariffs of 10%. However, he raised the rate to 15% just a day later, intensifying tensions. The Commission warned that the evolving tariff regime risks undermining commitments outlined in the joint statement that defined the transatlantic trade deal.
Officials stressed that the current situation threatens the goal of “fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial” trade and investment. Notably, the Commission’s language marked a sharper tone than its initial response on Friday, when it said only that it was assessing the ruling and maintaining contact with U.S. officials.
EU warns of market disruption
Last year’s agreement capped most U.S. tariffs on EU goods at 15%, while exempting sectors such as aircraft and parts. In return, the EU removed duties on many American products and shelved plans for retaliatory measures. Therefore, Brussels insists that existing ceilings remain intact.
The Commission emphasized that EU exports must continue receiving the most competitive treatment without additional increases. Moreover, it warned that unpredictable tariffs disrupt markets and weaken investor confidence worldwide.
EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic discussed the issue Saturday with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, signalling continued high-level engagement.
