EU and Mexico criticise Trump's proposed 30% tariff

July 13, 2025

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 30% tariffs on imports from the European Union and Mexico starting August 1, prompting strong reactions from both trading partners. The EU's Ursula von der Leyen warned of potential "proportionate countermeasures" while Mexico criticized the move as an "unfair deal" and emphasized its sovereignty is non-negotiable. Trump has warned he will impose even higher tariffs if either partner retaliates, extending similar tariff threats to Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Brazil.

Who is affected

European Union member countries and their industries (particularly German automakers)
Mexico and its economy
Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Brazil
US consumers and businesses that rely on imports from these countries
Global trade relationships and the international trading system

What action is being taken

The EU and Mexico are currently negotiating with the US to reach agreements before the August 1 deadline
The EU is preparing potential "proportionate countermeasures" if needed
Some EU leaders are calling for a united and resolute approach to reach a "mutually beneficial" deal
Mexico is working with the US on border security issues while maintaining its position on sovereignty
The Trump administration is actively pursuing trade deals with multiple countries as part of its "90 deals in 90 days" initiative

Why it matters

The US-EU trade deficit stands at $235.6 billion in 2024, which Trump cites as justification for the tariffs
The tariffs could significantly impact the cost of goods and disrupt global supply chains
These actions could trigger a broader trade war if countries retaliate with their own tariffs
The situation threatens long-standing trade relationships between major economic powers
Trump claims the tariffs will bring "hundreds of billions of dollars" into the US

What's next

The US and EU are working toward reaching an agreement before the August 1 deadline
If no agreement is reached, the EU may implement countermeasures, potentially as soon as Monday
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed confidence that a deal can be reached with the US
The Trump administration will continue pursuing its goal of securing "90 deals in 90 days" with various countries

Read full article from source: BBC