BRUSSELS — The European Commission responded cautiously but positively Friday to new tariffs announced by the United States, stating that the action falls in line with a trade agreement the two sides reached a year ago.
On Friday, the U.S. rolled out new tariffs of 10% and 12.5% on imports from 60 countries and trading blocs, including the European Union and China. Washington said the move was driven by findings that these partners were not doing enough to stop the flow of goods produced using forced labor.
The European Union finds itself in a relatively favorable position compared to many other U.S. trading partners, as the newly announced tariffs will not be added on top of existing standard customs duties. The announcement also restores additional tariff exemptions for EU goods — including items such as cork and diamonds — building on previously established exemptions for aircraft and parts, generic medications, and active pharmaceutical ingredients.
A European Commission spokesperson said the bloc viewed the outcome favorably, noting it was consistent with commitments made under the EU-U.S. Joint Statement. The spokesperson added that the development offered “positive momentum” for ongoing discussions about expanding tariff exemptions and strengthening trade ties between the two sides.
The EU also made clear that it expects Washington to continue honoring the terms of the agreement that was reached at U.S. President Donald Trump’s Turnberry golf resort in Scotland last July. Under that deal, the EU agreed to drop import duties on American industrial products, while the U.S. set 15% tariffs on the majority of EU goods.
“This is essential to continue providing our respective markets with much-needed stability and predictability,” the spokesperson said.
The EU has previously pushed back against U.S. claims that it has failed to take sufficient action against forced labor practices.
