The European Union has condemned President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, warning of swift countermeasures that could escalate global trade tensions. Announced Friday near Pittsburgh, Trump raised existing steel and aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50%, aiming to protect U.S. industry and bolster a $14.9 billion Nippon Steel–U.S. Steel deal.
The European Commission responded sharply, calling the move a threat to transatlantic economic stability and global supply chains. “This decision adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” a spokesperson said. The EU is finalizing consultations on expanded retaliatory tariffs, set to take effect by July 14 unless a negotiated solution is reached.
The U.S., the world’s largest steel importer in 2024 with 26.2 million tons (excluding the EU), is likely to see broad price increases across sectors due to the tariff hike. Trump’s decision follows earlier trade tensions with China over critical minerals and marks a renewed push for protectionist policies in his second term.
The reaction from global trade partners was swift. Canada’s Chamber of Commerce criticized the tariffs as a threat to North American economic security, while Canada’s United Steelworkers called it a direct attack on its workers. Australia’s Trade Minister labeled the move “unjustified and not the act of a friend.”
The new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum products are scheduled to take effect Wednesday, intensifying pressure on global metal producers and risking further trade retaliation.