In response to the imposition of new tariffs by the United States on European Union steel and aluminum imports, the European Commission has swiftly launched countermeasures on US imports into the EU. The Commission views the US decision as unjustified and harmful to transatlantic trade, resulting in higher prices for businesses and consumers.
Two-Step Approach
The Commission’s response follows a two-step approach:
- Suspension of Existing Countermeasures: Starting 1 April, the Commission will allow the suspension of the 2018 and 2020 countermeasures to lapse. These measures previously targeted a range of US products in response to the economic harm caused by tariffs on €8 billion of EU steel and aluminum exports.
- New Countermeasures: In response to new US tariffs affecting more than €18 billion of EU exports, the Commission is putting forward a new package of countermeasures on US exports. These measures will come into force by mid-April, following consultation with Member States and stakeholders.
In total, the EU’s countermeasures could apply to US goods exports worth up to €26 billion, matching the economic impact of the US tariffs. The EU remains open to negotiating a solution with the US administration, and the countermeasures can be reversed if such a solution is found.
Statement from President Ursula von der Leyen
President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, expressed regret over the US decision and highlighted the importance of trade relations between the EU and the US. She stated, “Tariffs are taxes. They are bad for business, and even worse for consumers. These tariffs are disrupting supply chains, bringing uncertainty for the economy. Jobs are at stake, and prices will go up both in Europe and the United States.”
She emphasized the need for the EU to act to protect consumers and businesses and expressed a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue with the US to find better solutions.
Next Steps
The Commission’s decision to restore the 2018 and 2020 countermeasures against the US will take immediate effect on 1 April. The process in response to the new US tariffs will proceed under the EU’s Enforcement Regulation, considering the US measure as a safeguard measure. A two-week stakeholder consultation will run until 26 March, after which the Commission will finalize its proposal and consult Member States. The legal act imposing the countermeasures is expected to be in place by mid-April.
Background
In 2018, the US introduced tariffs on €6.4 billion of European steel and aluminum exports, followed by additional tariffs in 2020. The EU responded with countermeasures on US exports to the EU. In February 2025, the US announced new 25% tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum, prompting a firm response from the EU.
The US tariffs will apply to industrial-grade steel and aluminum, other steel and aluminum products, and their derivative commercial products, covering up to €26 billion worth of EU exports to the US.
The EU’s countermeasures aim to match the economic impact of the US tariffs and protect the interests of European consumers and businesses. The Commission remains committed to finding a negotiated solution and is ready to engage in meaningful dialogue with the US administration.
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