The EU is ready to implement retaliation if there is no agreement with Washington – the spokesman of the EC Olof Gill said in a communiqué.
“We strongly regret the announced increase in American duties to steel from 25 to 50 percent. This decision increases uncertainty in the global economy and raises costs for consumers and enterprises on both sides of the Atlantic” – he added.
Trump announced on Friday that the duties for the US and aluminum imported to the US will increase from June 4 from 25 to 50 percent. Additional fees – as he emphasized – will strengthen the American steel industry.
The European Union is in danger
As the EC spokesman reminded, the commission “in good faith” suspended its own retaliation on April 14 to create a space for further negotiations, but at the same time the EU finalizes internal consultation over the extension of possible actions.
“If the solution acceptable to both sides is not achieved, the existing and new EU funds will automatically come into force on July 14 or earlier, if necessary,” added the spokesman.
He noted that the EU is “ready to act in defense of its interests – protecting employees, consumers and industry.”
According to the DPA agency in 2024, the US was the largest importer of Stal in the world.
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