Von der Leyen announced that Brussels has a ‘strong plan’ ready. This plan includes tariffs on American products worth 26 billion euros. According to her, American companies and consumers should prepare for higher prices and less access to the European market if Washington maintains the sanctions.
The EU will mainly focus on American agricultural products, steel, textiles, and consumer products. Part of the measures has already been legally prepared so that the Union can respond immediately once the American tariffs come into effect. With this, Brussels wants to demonstrate that it will not be pressured.
According to diplomatic sources, it has also been considered to partially close the European market for American companies in public tenders. US companies would then be excluded from multibillion contracts in sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and energy.
Although the tone was sharp, Von der Leyen emphasized that Brussels prefers consultation. The EU remains open to dialogue with Washington and wants to jointly seek solutions for trade disputes, such as state aid to companies and international rules for digital trade.
At the same time, the European Union has received support from other economic powers that also fear unilateral American trade measures. Among others, Canada and Japan have indicated willingness to take joint steps if Trump persists in his course.
In Southern European countries, there is particular concern about possible American tariffs on wine and olive oil. European wine producers fear losing market share in the US to Californian competitors who hope to benefit from American import tariffs on European bottles.
Von der Leyen concluded her speech with a warning: “If Europe is challenged, we know how to defend ourselves. We are an economic great power with the means and willingness to act.”
The coming days will reveal whether Washington and Brussels resolve their dispute through consultation or take the first steps toward a new trade war.