EU’s Maros Sefcovic seeks urgent talks with US to prevent damaging trade tariffs.Thierry Monasse/Gettyimages
The European Union’s trade chief, Maros Sefcovic, confirmed on Monday that he intends to hold urgent talks with his US counterparts as Brussels intensifies EU trade talks aimed at averting a potentially damaging trade standoff with Washington.
His remarks follow President Donald Trump’s renewed threat to impose sweeping 30% tariffs on European imports by August 1.
Speaking ahead of a meeting with the bloc’s trade ministers, Sefcovic stressed the EU’s commitment to preserving stable EU US trade relations through negotiation rather than retaliation.
“I intend to speak with my US counterparts again later today, as I cannot imagine walking away without genuine effort,” Sefcovic said during Monday’s press briefing in Brussels.
EU Trade Talks Focus on Averting Looming US Tariffs
The potential tariffs, which would strike at the heart of Europe’s export economy, threaten to undermine months of painstaking EU trade talks intended to improve transatlantic relations and reduce commercial tensions.
Brussels is working to prevent this from escalating into a broader trade conflict that could have widespread economic repercussions.
EU officials have reiterated the bloc’s readiness to defend its economic interests but emphasized their preference for a diplomatic solution.
According to Sefcovic, dialogue remains the most viable path forward despite the US administration’s recent hardline rhetoric.
Trade Chief Maros Sefcovic Negotiations Seek to Prevent New Tariff Escalation
Sefcovic, who is leading negotiations on behalf of the EU’s 27 countries, expressed cautious optimism that Washington remains open to discussions despite the looming deadline set by Trump.
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“The current uncertainty caused by unjustified tariffs cannot persist indefinitely,” he told reporters.
Trump’s announcement over the weekend disrupted months of talks and heightened fears of a renewed transatlantic trade war, particularly as both economies continue to navigate inflation pressures and weak growth.
EU ministers are expected to meet later this week to assess progress on the negotiations. While officials insist on a resolution through talks, contingency measures are being quietly prepared should the US proceed with its planned tariffs.
Future Implications for EU US Trade Relations
The developments mark another significant test for the durability of EU US trade relations.
European businesses are growing increasingly concerned that failure to reach a timely agreement could disrupt supply chains and further erode investor confidence.
