Brussels, April 9, 2025 — In a significant escalation of transatlantic trade tensions, European Union member states on Wednesday approved the first wave of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in response to Washington’s recent duties on EU steel and aluminium exports.

The new EU tariffs, ranging from 10% to 25%, will take effect next week, targeting a wide range of American products including jeans and motorcycles. However, U.S.-made whiskey and other alcoholic beverages, initially included in the European Commission’s draft proposal, have been removed from the final list.

According to EU officials, the first wave of duties will cover approximately €21 billion worth of American goods. The European Commission stressed that the decision was based on reciprocity, citing the €26 billion worth of EU exports impacted by the U.S. tariffs announced last month.

More Tariffs Coming

The Commission revealed that this is only the first phase of a broader response. Additional duties are scheduled for mid-May and end of the year, with targeted goods to include:

• Beef and poultry
• Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit
• Nuts and soybeans (from early December)

Brussels noted that the escalation was necessary but reiterated its preference for a negotiated settlement over tit-for-tat tariff battles.

“While we are prepared to defend our interests, our door remains open to dialogue,” a Commission spokesperson said.

Background: Trump’s Trade Agenda

The EU’s move follows the re-imposition of U.S. steel and aluminium tariffs under President Donald Trump, part of his broader “America First” trade strategy. The administration argues the duties are needed to correct trade imbalances, boost domestic production, and fund tax cuts promised during Trump’s re-election campaign.

A separate and more extensive tariff package from the U.S. — including duties on cars and almost all EU exports — is reportedly under internal EU review, with potential countermeasures already being discussed by Brussels.

Potential Global Repercussions

Trade analysts warn the spiraling tariff exchanges could have ripple effects on global supply chains and consumer prices on both sides of the Atlantic.

The EU’s calibrated approach, removing certain high-profile American exports like whiskey from the list, is seen by some observers as a signal that Brussels hopes to avoid a full-scale trade war — for now.