EU responds to US tariffs, Orban the usual bastian contrarian

European Union approves countermeasures against the United States over steel and aluminium duties, Orban’s vote against is irrelevant

The European Union today approved countermeasures against the United States in response to its decision to re-impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports. After a meeting of the Trade Defence Instruments Committee, the EU members voted in favour of the European Commission’s proposal to introduce duties between 10% and 25% on a long list of goods from the US. However, Hungary cast its negative vote, which does not affect the comitology decision-making procedure.

The EU considers the duties imposed by the US to be unjustified and harmful, believing that they have a negative impact on both the European and global economy. The new measures will enter into force on 15 April, with a series of successive deadlines for the application of duties on various products, including rice, cereals, tobacco and building materials.

Despite the adoption of these measures, the European Commission reiterated its preference for a dialogue with Washington, hoping for a negotiated solution that could lead to a mutually beneficial agreement.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s planned visit to Donald Trump on 17 April in Washington raises concerns in France, where some government officials fear it could weaken EU unity just as the countermeasures are about to take effect. French Industry Minister Marc Ferracci emphasised the importance of remaining united in our response to the duties so as not to further the US’s divisive strategy.

The situation remains delicate, with Europe called upon to maintain a common front, even in the face of resistance from some members such as Hungary and political pressure for future negotiations.

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(Photo: © AndKronos)