Trade war: EU slams 25% tariffs on US goods in trade retaliation

The European Union has imposed 25% tariffs on several United States products in a major trade retaliation.

EU member states approved the tariffs on Wednesday April 9, 2025, after America taxed European steel and aluminium.

According to reports, the US earlier imposed 25% duties on steel and aluminium worth €26 billion from the EU.

The EU said its new tariffs target US goods worth €22 billion yearly.

European officials listed almonds, poultry, orange juice, soybeans, steel, aluminium, yachts, and tobacco among affected items.

France, Ireland, and Italy removed Bourbon whiskey from the list after the US issued a strong threat.

President Donald Trump had warned of a 200% duty on European alcohol if whiskey remained on the list.

Hungary opposed the move and refused to support the EU decision.

The final list of US products hit by tariffs was not immediately released to the public.

EU trade spokesperson Olof Gill said the tariffs could be lifted if the US agrees to fair trade talks.

He posted on social media platform X that negotiations must be balanced and reasonable.

The EU will implement the tariffs in phases between April 15 and December 1 this year.

Officials said this delay would allow space for possible talks with the United States.

The Trump administration had also imposed 25% tariffs on EU cars and 20% on other European goods.

EU authorities said about 70% of their exports to America now face US tariffs.

European industries fear job losses and profit drops if the trade fight continues.

The European Commission confirmed it is preparing a second package of retaliatory tariffs.

Officials said the new list will be presented early next week.

Tension continues to grow as both economic giants dig into their positions.

Trade experts warn the situation could affect global markets and investor confidence.

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