Trump Proposes 50% Tariffs on EU Imports Starting June 1, Later Postpones to July

According to Trump, the measure is driven by what he called an “unacceptable” trade deficit with the EU, which he estimated at over $250 billion per year. He accused Brussels of maintaining a protectionist stance, citing “massive trade barriers, currency manipulation, VAT policies, and discriminatory legal actions against American corporations.”

“Talks have gone nowhere. Therefore, starting June 1, I recommend implementing a direct 50% tariff on all EU imports — excluding goods manufactured in the United States,” Trump stated.

Previously, on April 2, 2025, the Trump administration introduced a 20% tariff on goods from EU member states, prompting sharp criticism from European leaders. That move was temporarily suspended for 90 days after the EU agreed to enter consultation. However, Trump later claimed that the talks produced “no meaningful progress.”

The European Commission had earlier announced its readiness to respond with 25% retaliatory tariffs on a range of American exports, including diamonds, nuts, and personal care products. Still, as reported by the Financial Times, the EU admitted it might be unable to secure exemptions for key strategic sectors such as metallurgy and automotive manufacturing.

Should Trump’s proposed measures be implemented, they could mark the most significant escalation in trade tensions between the U.S. and EU in the 21st century, potentially disrupting global supply chains and consumer markets on both sides of the Atlantic.

Update: On May 26, 2025, Trump announced a postponement of the proposed tariff hike. The new effective date is July 9, 2025. The decision was made in light of renewed efforts to restart negotiations with Brussels, according to the Associated Press.