Approved overwhelmingly by EU member states—with Hungary standing as the sole objector—the tariffs will begin taking effect on April 15. The European Commission made clear the bloc is still open to diplomacy: “These countermeasures can be suspended at any time, should the U.S. agree to a fair and balanced negotiated outcome.”
The first wave of the EU’s response revives a set of tariffs that had previously been put on hold, while a second, broader package will introduce new duties on American goods beginning next month, with certain items facing levies as late as December.
Products caught in the crosshairs include soybeans, motorcycles, beauty products, poultry, rice, corn, fruits, nuts, wood, textiles, plastics, paintings, electrical components, and vehicles. The range reflects not only economic leverage but political calculus—the selected goods are expected to hit U.S. states with strong Republican leanings particularly hard.
The Commission warned that more retaliatory steps could be on the horizon, especially if the U.S. proceeds with additional tariffs, including a 25 percent duty on European cars and a proposed 20 percent reciprocal tariff regime.
Despite the escalating trade tension, Brussels reaffirmed its willingness to reach a negotiated settlement. Until then, officials say, the EU will act decisively to safeguard its industries, workers, and global economic stability.
