The European Commission views U.S. President Trump’s proposed “reciprocal” tariff policy as a step in the wrong direction. The EU remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining an open, transparent, and predictable global trading system that benefits all partners, while raising concerns about the potential economic impact of such tariffs.
The European Commission has expressed strong opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proposal to impose “reciprocal” tariffs on global trade, a move it views as damaging to an open and predictable trading system. In a statement released on February 18, 2025, the Commission reiterated its commitment to a global trade environment that promotes transparency and fairness for all trading partners.
The EU points out that it already operates under some of the lowest tariff rates in the world, highlighting that the proposed increase in U.S. tariffs would unjustly burden both European businesses and American consumers. “Tariffs are taxes. By imposing tariffs, the U.S. is effectively taxing its own citizens, raising costs for businesses, stifling growth, and contributing to inflation,” the statement reads.
For decades, the EU has advocated for reducing trade barriers globally, working collaboratively with nations, including the U.S., to lower tariffs and ensure a more integrated and efficient global market. However, the Commission notes that President Trump’s approach is a departure from this long-standing strategy, as it introduces a unilateral, reciprocal tariff system that risks disrupting the global trading system.
The European Union, home to one of the world’s largest and most open economies, insists that international trade should be based on mutually beneficial relationships grounded in fairness and transparency. Over 70% of imports into the EU enter duty-free, and its average applied tariff remains among the lowest globally. The EU has also developed the largest and fastest-growing network of trade agreements worldwide, having concluded more than three times as many deals as the U.S.
The European Commission has warned that it will respond firmly to any unjustified trade barriers, including tariffs, that undermine the legal and non-discriminatory nature of global trade policies. It reiterated that the EU will take immediate action to protect its businesses, workers, and consumers from such measures.
While President Trump’s administration argues that reciprocal tariffs are necessary to create fairer trade relationships, the EU remains firm in its belief that the best path forward is one that fosters open, transparent, and balanced trade practices for the benefit of all global partners.
