EU Commission warns of retaliation over potential U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminium

The European Commission has stated that it will take action if the United States imposes additional tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from the European Union. While no official announcement has been made by Washington, EU officials have signaled a strong response should such measures be introduced.

EU Trade Representative Olof Gille confirmed that the Commission has not yet received formal notification regarding any new tariffs on EU goods. “Without details or written explanations, we will not respond to general notices. The EU sees no justification for imposing tariffs on its exports, and we will act to protect European businesses, workers, and consumers from unjustified measures,” a European Commission statement read.

The Commission warned that any new tariffs would be “unlawful and economically counterproductive”, citing the deep economic ties between the EU and the U.S. “Given the integrated supply chains established through transatlantic trade and investment, imposing tariffs would disrupt production and harm businesses on both sides,” the statement added.

Brussels also emphasized that tariffs function as taxes, directly impacting U.S. businesses and consumers. “By imposing tariffs, the U.S. would effectively tax its own citizens, increase business costs, and fuel inflation. Moreover, such measures would raise economic uncertainty and weaken global market integration,” the Commission argued.

The warning comes amid growing trade tensions, with the EU signaling its readiness to retaliate should Washington move forward with the proposed tariffs.