A senior European Union official engaged in four hours of discussions with U.S. administration officials in an effort to prevent a potential trade conflict, emphasizing the need for fair and active engagement in global trade.
“The main objective, as presented to us by our American partners, is reciprocity,” said European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic on Thursday.
Sefcovic met on Wednesday with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, appointed by President Donald Trump.
Trump’s push for reciprocal tariffs on European imports has strained the long-standing economic partnership between the U.S. and Europe. The American president has argued that tariffs imposed by the U.S. should mirror those applied to American exports.
His proposal also includes additional levies on sectors such as the automotive industry, pharmaceuticals, and computer equipment. Meanwhile, tariffs of 25% on steel and aluminum imports have already been implemented.
Trump has temporarily suspended tariffs on Mexico and Canada, granting a 30-day negotiation period while demanding stronger action against illegal immigration and drug trafficking. However, if no agreement is reached, new import duties could take effect in March.
During a press briefing, White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett stated that discussions with Mexican officials are ongoing to resolve trade disputes.
“We want fair trade,” Hassett declared.
Sefcovic also addressed concerns over China’s industrial overcapacity, particularly in steel production, arguing that the U.S. and the EU should collaborate on addressing the issue rather than imposing trade barriers against each other.
