The International Trade Council acknowledges the European Union's (EU) intended course of action to challenge the newly imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports by the United States at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
President Donald Trump's decision to implement tariffs on these vital industries has generated a significant degree of uncertainty, particularly within Europe. While the tariffs have exempted neighboring nations, Canada and Mexico, the EU—alongside Brazil, South Korea, and Japan—are predicted to bear the brunt of the impact.
The President of the EU Council, Donald Tusk, has expressed his concerns about the situation. During his recent message from Finland, he urged, "Make trade, Mr. President, not war." Emphasizing the long-standing bond between Europe and America, Tusk called for cherishing, not challenging, this vital friendship.
The EU Trade Commissioner, speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, announced the EU's intent to contest the U.S. tariffs at the WTO. The EU maintains that the security exemption—typically reserved for wartime—is being misused in this situation.
"We are confident that we have a strong case in the WTO and we are reaching out to other friends and allies to consider a joint approach to the WTO," the EU Trade Commissioner stated.
As the International Trade Council, we remain dedicated to the promotion of fair and open trade across the globe. We support the EU's course of action in this matter and will continue to advocate for policies that benefit all parties involved in international trade.
