The European Union has demonstrated a significant shift in its approach to trade talks with the United States. Last Thursday, the EU announced a suspension of retaliatory tariffs against America for 90 days. This decision closely follows President Trump’s strategic move to pause tariffs on over 75 countries for an equivalent duration.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed the EU’s intent, stating, “We want to give negotiations a chance… if negotiations are not satisfactory, our countermeasures will kick in.” She further emphasized the bloc’s preference for a zero-for-zero trade agreement concerning industrial goods, a proposal aimed at addressing some of Trump’s concerns. However, this offer might not meet all of President Trump’s demands, particularly as von der Leyen did not address the acceptance of American agricultural products, which the EU traditionally deems inferior to its own.
On Monday, EU Trade Chief Maros Sefcovic voiced the EU’s readiness for a fair negotiation on tariffs with the US. Sefcovic communicated this stance on X:
The EU remains constructive and ready for a fair deal – including reciprocity through our 0-for-0 tariff offer on industrial goods and the work on non-tariff barriers. Achieving this will require a significant joint effort on both sides. 2/2
— Maroš Šefčovič (@MarosSefcovic)
April 14, 2025
Sefcovic’s announcement underscores the EU’s eagerness to secure a mutually beneficial deal, including a 0-for-0 tariff proposal on industrial goods and eliminating non-tariff barriers. The EU hopes this will prove sufficient to satisfy the Trump administration’s expectations.
Over the past ten years, EU exports to the US have seen a remarkable 44% increase. This growth is highlighted by a chart from EuroNews, showcasing US imports from the EU in 2024. The EU’s strategic moves and diplomatic negotiations with the US mark a pivotal moment in transatlantic trade relations.
