European Union leaders are set to discuss imposing 25% tariffs on a range of U.S. imports, including steel, clothing, tobacco, and electronics, but notably excluding bourbon whiskey and other alcoholic beverages.
This move follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on EU imports. EU leaders will meet in Brussels on April 9 to vote on a proposed package of tariffs, according to a document obtained by Radio Free Europe. The plan envisions a phased approach to tariff implementation.
The first phase, effective April 15, would impose an additional 25% tariff on vegetables, grains, tobacco, certain vehicles, and electronic goods. Toys and games could face a 10% tariff.
The second phase, scheduled for May 16, would extend tariffs to additional vehicle types, construction steel and iron, live animals and meat, non-alcoholic beverages, and artworks.
Later in the year, starting in December, tariffs would be imposed on nuts and soybeans.
“These measures target imports from the United States that the Union does not critically depend on for supply,” the document states. It also notes the need to “avoid as much as possible the negative impact on various market actors within the EU, including consumers.”
The EU’s plan strategically avoids highly sensitive sectors. Recent debates among EU leaders revealed differing opinions, particularly regarding whether to exclude bourbon and wine. France and Italy, both major wine exporters, successfully lobbied to protect their markets from potential U.S. retaliations.
Trump had previously threatened a 200% tariff on European alcoholic beverages if bourbon were targeted.
Additionally, the EU’s plans exclude critical items such as aircraft and parts, semiconductors, and fuels, where the Union relies heavily on U.S. supply. No tariffs will be imposed on pharmaceutical products, aligning with the U.S. approach, although Trump has indicated that separate tariffs could target this sector later.
Washington has already introduced multiple tariffs against EU imports, including a 25% tariff on steel, aluminum, and cars. Starting April 9, new 20% tariffs are expected to affect almost all remaining product categories.
The EU document warns that the U.S. tariffs “could have a significant negative economic impact on the Union’s relevant industries.”
The evolving trade dispute highlights growing tensions between two of the world’s largest economies, with broader implications for global markets.
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