Trump contends that trade agreements in the past have been made too much in favor of foreign partners. The president particularly points to Canada, Mexico, and the European Union as parties who, according to him, have too easy access to the U.S. market. To correct that, he wants to introduce high import tariffs. This is also intended to protect American producers themselves.
Analysts see this as a sign of protectionism and potentially higher import duties. This could cause disruptions in international markets on the global stage.
Trump has long criticized what he describes as ‘unfair trade practices.’ The U.S. would be structurally disadvantaged by trade agreements in which, according to him, too much leeway is given to foreign producers to enter the American market at relatively low tariffs.
In the case of the European Union, Trump is especially concerned about the mandatory trade deficit: the U.S. imports more products from the EU than it exports, and he intends to correct this with stricter measures. Critics question the effectiveness of higher tariffs. They argue that consumers ultimately pay the price because companies pass on the extra import costs in the sales price.
Moreover, an increase in protectionism could result in the European Union and other trade partners raising their import tariffs or implementing other retaliatory measures.
For the EU, the threat of higher U.S. import tariffs presents a significant challenge. The internal market is heavily dependent on exports, especially in sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. Other sectors, including aviation, high-tech, and the pharmaceutical industry, are also concerned.
At the political level, there is division within the EU over the proper response. Some want to ease tensions by diplomatic means, while others advocate for a strong reply, for example by raising tariffs on American products themselves. Combined, the EU could demonstrate its willingness to defend its internal market.
European leaders, including Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have indicated their willingness to engage in talks. For now, it is unclear whether Trump will implement his threats in practice. In two weeks, an EU summit of government leaders will be held in Brussels with two key agenda items: addressing the Russian war in Ukraine and preventing a trade war with the Americans.