EU prepares response to US: tariffs on meat and cereals may increase

The European Union is planning to impose duties on imports of up to $28 billion worth of American goods in response to new US tariffs in the near future, Reuters reports.

The article says that on April 7, the European Commission will propose a list of American goods to be taxed, and the member states will vote on April 9.

The list may include meat, cereals, wine, wood, clothing, as well as household goods ranging from vacuum cleaners and toilet paper to chewing gum and dental floss. Bourbon will also be on the list.

The first pan-European political meeting on the introduction of duties in response to US restrictions is due to take place in the coming days. Trade ministers from the 27 EU members will exchange views on the impact and how best to respond.

At the same time, Copa and Cogeca expressed deep concern over the imposition of restrictions by the United States, which will escalate trade tensions between the two key trading partners and threaten to undermine a sector that depends on stability and open and predictable markets, the association’s press service reports.

Copa President Massimiliano Giansanti emphasized that European farmers and agro-cooperatives are already facing challenges ranging from rising production costs to climate-related pressures.

“These new tariffs will further increase the uncertainty and financial burden on our sector, affecting both producers and consumers. Ensuring our food security must be the compass for Europe in these challenging times, as our common national security starts there,” he said.

Cogeca President Lennart Nilsson added that these trade measures will not benefit farmers in either the EU or the US. Instead, they will limit their options, raise prices and weaken the sustainability of the agricultural business.

Copa and Cogeca strongly urge EU and US policymakers to fully exhaust diplomatic efforts in the coming days. Both sides should work constructively to resolve the grievances without jeopardizing existing trade benefits, ensuring that farmers and agro-cooperatives can continue to contribute to food security and economic resilience on both sides of the Atlantic.

Tags: EU, USA