Trump Announces 30% Tariffs on EU and Mexican Imports, Warns Against Retaliation
President Donald Trump has declared that a 30% tariff will be imposed on imports from the European Union and Mexico to the United States, effective August 1.
This announcement was made through letters posted on his Truth Social website, with similar warnings reportedly sent to other nations.
In his letters, President Trump explicitly stated that he would impose even higher import taxes if either the EU or Mexico chose to retaliate against these tariffs.
Reasons for the Tariffs:
In his letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Trump cited long-term, large, and persistent trade deficits with the EU, which he attributed to their tariff and non-tariff policies and trade barriers.
He characterized the trade relationship as "far from reciprocal."
Background and EU Response:
The EU, America's largest trading partner, has been a frequent target of Trump's criticism. Washington had previously announced 20% levies on European goods in April.
The US trade deficit with the EU in 2024 was $235.6 billion.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU remains ready to "continue working towards an agreement by Aug 1" and emphasized the EU's commitment to openness and fair trading practices.
She also warned that the EU "will take all necessary steps to safeguard EU interests, including the adoption of proportionate countermeasures if required."