EU, Protests Against Trump-induced Steel Tariff Increase…“Retaliatory Measures May Take Effect In July”

The European Union (EU) has strongly opposed the decision to increase tariffs on steel and aluminum by the United States, formalizing the possibility of retaliatory measures. The EU Commission expressed "strong regret" over the U.S. government's actions in a statement released on the 31st (local time) and announced that it is preparing countermeasures.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a day earlier that he would increase import tariffs on steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%. As a result, the already sensitive trade friction between the U.S. and the EU is again intensifying.

A spokesperson for the EU Commission criticized, "This U.S. action further exacerbates global economic uncertainty and burdens both consumers and companies on both sides of the Atlantic." He added, "It dampens the ongoing negotiations."

The EU had deferred the implementation of retaliatory tariffs during negotiations with the U.S., but changed its stance and raised its response level after the recent announcement. The commission warned, "If no mutually acceptable solution is reached, the EU's response measures may automatically take effect from July 14, and could be advanced depending on the situation."

This situation could escalate into a conflict that can significantly affect the global trade order, and diplomatic solutions through future G7 summits or the World Trade Organization (WTO) are drawing attention.