EU Loses Up to $26 Billion Annually to Tariff Evasion, Trump Government Claims; Says China 'Whitewashes' Exports

The U.S. government, during the Trump administration, asserted that the European Union suffers annual losses reaching as high as $26 billion as a consequence of tariff evasion. This significant figure underscores the perceived financial impact of illicit trade practices on the bloc.

Furthermore, the administration leveled accusations against China, alleging that the country engages in "whitewashing" its exports. This practice, according to the U.S. claim, serves as a method to disguise the origin of goods and thereby evade applicable tariffs, particularly those imposed by the U.S. and potentially impacting EU trade as well.

These statements reflect the complex and often contentious trade relationships involving the United States, the European Union, and China. The allegations highlight ongoing disputes over trade practices, market access, and the enforcement of international trade regulations.