EU questions new US tariffs, says US not upholding trade deal

The European Union's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, has challenged the United States' rationale for implementing new tariffs on approximately 60 trading partners, including the EU itself. The tariffs, announced by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, are based on the assertion that these partners have not adequately banned imports produced through forced labor.

“

One cannot say that about the European Union.

Kallas firmly rejected this justification, stating, "One cannot say that about the European Union." She emphasized the EU's robust labor standards, including paid holidays and strong working conditions, which she believes stand in stark contrast to the U.S. claims. The EU intends to formally request a more detailed explanation from the U.S. administration regarding the basis for these new trade measures.

"We had an agreement with the United States, and we have fulfilled our part of that agreement. Therefore, it is an unpleasant surprise that the agreement is not being honored," Kallas added, expressing disappointment that the U.S. appears not to be upholding its commitments under a trade deal established last year between the EU and the U.S.

“

If you compare our labor legislation with that of the United States, we have paid holidays, and we have very good working conditions for our employees. So, this is not something that has any basis in reality.

The new tariffs, ranging from 10 to 12.5 percent, officially came into effect early Friday morning, replacing a temporary global tariff initially imposed by President Donald Trump in February. The EU's challenge signals a potential trade dispute and raises questions about adherence to existing international trade agreements.

“

We had an agreement with the United States, and we have fulfilled our part of that agreement. Therefore, it is an unpleasant surprise that the agreement is not being honored.