Europe’s culinary delights, from rich Belgian chocolate to creamy Irish Kerrygold butter and aromatic Mediterranean olive oil, are now in the crosshairs of a potential 17% US tariff. Donald Trump has threatened this significant duty on European food and farm produce exports, a move that could severely impact popular items that are major sellers across the United States.
This warning emerged from high-stakes discussions in Washington, where EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič was informed by top US officials about the impending tariffs. The threat highlights the continued aggressive stance of the US in trade negotiations, with Trump consistently seeking to gain leverage.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, the European Union remains committed to a diplomatic resolution, with spokesperson Olof Gill confirming that “progress was made towards an agreement in principle” during recent talks. However, the EU is also making robust preparations for a potential trade war, signaling its readiness to impose retaliatory tariffs on a range of US products, including iconic American spirits like Bourbon and large commercial aircraft, should Trump proceed with his proposed duties.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has indicated a strategic pivot towards a high-level framework agreement, acknowledging the limited time to forge a comprehensive deal. A key demand from the EU is immediate relief from tariffs in vital sectors, particularly the beleaguered auto industry, which currently grapples with a substantial 27.5% US tariff. The looming July 9 deadline, marking the end of a 90-day tariff pause for over 60 countries, adds urgency to these high-stakes negotiations.
Belgian Chocolate to Irish Butter: Europe’s Food Under Tariff Fire
