BRUSSELS: The European Union on Sunday (Feb 2) blasted US President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, and mentioned the 27-nation bloc would hit again “firmly” if focused.
Brussels had till now indicated it hoped to keep away from a commerce battle with Trump by means of negotiation.
However on Friday the US chief doubled down by saying he “completely” deliberate to focus on the EU in future, as he slapped levies on his north American neighbours and China.
“The European Union regrets the US determination to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China,” mentioned a spokesman for the European Fee.
“Tariffs create pointless financial disruption and drive inflation. They’re hurtful to all sides.”
The spokesman mentioned “the EU would reply firmly to any buying and selling companion that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU items”.
“At the moment, we aren’t conscious of any extra tariffs being imposed on EU merchandise,” he added.
He mentioned the 27-nation EU remained dedicated to low tariffs as a approach to “drive progress and financial stability inside a powerful, rules-based buying and selling system”.
And he reiterated the EU’s dedication to its commerce and funding relationship with the US – “the largest on the planet”.
“There’s a lot at stake,” mentioned the spokesman. “We must always each be taking a look at strengthening this relationship.”
