Brussels: President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced Sunday that the European Union (EU) will extend its suspension of counter tariffs on American goods until early August, despite Washington's announcement of a 30 percent tariff on European products.
According to Qatar News Agency, von der Leyen, speaking at a press conference, said that the United States has sent an official letter outlining measures that will take effect unless an agreement is reached through negotiations. She added that the Commission will use the available time until early August to pursue a negotiated solution that would prevent both sides from imposing reciprocal tariffs.
This decision follows US President Donald Trump's announcement on Saturday of his intention to impose a 30 percent tariff on EU and Mexican imports starting August 1, citing a long-standing trade deficit with the EU. He noted that these tariffs could be reduced if the EU or its member states chose to invest in manufacturing or production within the United States.
Von der Leyen commented that the EU is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect its interests, including imposing countermeasures if needed. In a related statement, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas told reporters that the bloc has the tools to defend its interests, particularly by targeting the US service sector, which is a key American export to Europe, providing the bloc with a strong position in negotiations.
These developments come amid rising tensions in transatlantic trade relations, already strained by disputes over tariffs on steel and aluminum, with potential new tariffs threatening strategic sectors such as automobiles, aircraft, and pharmaceuticals.