Trump Says EU ‘In For Tariffs’, Warns Of 10% Rate On China

AFP/APP

Washington: US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on the European Union (EU) and warned that a 10 percent duty on Chinese imports could be enacted as soon as February 1.

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Tuesday, Trump reiterated his criticism of the EU’s trade practices, accusing the bloc of treating the US unfairly and not importing enough American goods.

“They treat us very, very badly. So they’re going to be in for tariffs,” Trump said, signaling his intention to address trade imbalances through duties or by urging increased purchases of American oil and gas.

Trump also renewed his stance on China, blaming the country for sending fentanyl to Mexico and Canada.

He indicated that the 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods could take effect by February 1, aligning with the date he had previously set for imposing a 25 percent tariff on Canada and Mexico in response to illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking.

These tariffs would affect some of the US’s largest trade partners, with Mexico, Canada, and China being significant sources of imports. On Monday, Trump had outlined his broader vision for overhauling the US trade system, pledging to use tariffs and taxes on foreign countries to benefit American citizens.

He signed an executive order directing US agencies to investigate issues like trade deficits, unfair practices, and currency manipulation, potentially paving the way for more tariffs in the future.