EU to Announce Countermeasures Against US Tariffs, Including Potential Boeing Jet Tariffs
BRUSSELS/SINGAPORE - The European Union is set to unveil its next steps in the ongoing trade dispute with the United States, as tensions escalate over tariffs and potential retaliatory measures. European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic announced on Wednesday that the European Commission will reveal details of its planned countermeasures against U.S. tariffs on Thursday, May 8, 2025 [1][2].
Speaking at a news conference in Singapore following the signing of a digital trade agreement, Sefcovic emphasized the EU's preference for negotiations but also its readiness to act. "Tomorrow we will announce next preparatory steps, both in the area of possible rebalancing measures, and also in the areas important for the further discussions," Sefcovic stated [1].
The EU's potential countermeasures come in response to U.S. import tariffs on cars and other goods. In April, the 27-nation bloc had already approved duties, mostly of 25%, on U.S. imports amounting to 21 billion euros ($23 billion) [1]. The new measures would represent a further escalation in the trade dispute between the two economic powerhouses.
In a significant development, the Financial Times reported that the European Union is considering including tariffs on Boeing jets as part of its retaliatory measures [3]. This move would target a key U.S. industry and potentially impact the global aviation sector. The European Commission plans to include civilian aircraft on a list of roughly $100 billion in annual U.S. imports to be targeted, according to sources familiar with the matter [3].
Sefcovic emphasized the EU's commitment to diplomacy while also preparing for all scenarios. "I would like to make it very clear that negotiations clearly come first, but not at any cost," he said [1]. The Trade Commissioner added that he will work closely with member states and industries to prepare for various outcomes.
As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, the EU's announcement on Thursday will be closely watched by international markets, policymakers, and industries potentially affected by the escalating trade tensions. The inclusion of Boeing jets in the potential tariff list underscores the high stakes involved and the far-reaching implications of this trade dispute.
The unfolding situation highlights the complex interplay between trade policies, diplomatic negotiations, and economic strategies in an increasingly interconnected global economy. As both the EU and the U.S. navigate these challenges, the impact of their decisions will likely reverberate beyond their borders, affecting international trade relations and economic partnerships worldwide.