EU expands list of US goods to be hit with tariffs in response to Trump threats

The European Union has decided to expand the list of US goods that could be hit with tariffs in response to trade threats from US President Donald Trump. The measures are related to the possibility of the US imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium exports from Europe, which has caused serious concern in the EU.

According to Bloomberg, the expansion of this list could affect European exports by up to $29.3 billion, which is four times the previous amount, when Trump imposed restrictions on the EU's steel industry. If the new US restrictions also extend to derived products, this would be a serious blow to the European economy.

Trump has announced a number of trade restrictions as part of a review of global trade rules, including 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium exports from Europe. These restrictions could come into force as early as March 12. In addition, the US President has announced his intention to introduce mirror tariffs on European goods, which creates additional trade difficulties for the EU.

So far, the list of US goods that the EU planned to impose tariffs on in response to Trump's previous measures remains frozen until the end of March. However, if the situation does not change, this list will automatically enter into force, which will lead to the introduction of new trade restrictions.

The EU is currently assessing the possible consequences for its economy, and is also studying the possibilities of alternative supplies for European member states. At the same time, the European Union emphasizes that any retaliatory actions must be proportionate and comply with the requirements of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This means that the EU must comply with international norms and restrictions when introducing customs measures.

The threat of new tariffs from the US creates additional economic challenges for European companies and suppliers, which must take into account possible changes in the market. The situation remains tense, and its development depends on further decisions by the US, as well as on how quickly the EU can adapt its measures in the context of a trade war.