US Demands ‘High Price’ From EU with New Food Tariff Threat

The US is clearly demanding a “high price” from the European Union, evidenced by Donald Trump’s recent threat to impose a 17% tariff on European food and farm produce exports. This aggressive tactic targets well-loved European products such as Belgian chocolate, Irish Kerrygold butter, and olive oil from Italy, Spain, and France, all significant sellers in the American market.
The warning was reportedly delivered to EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič during talks in Washington with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. This aligns with Trump’s past rhetoric, where he described the EU as “nastier” than China when it came to trade.
While the European Union’s trade spokesperson, Olof Gill, reiterated the bloc’s commitment to finding a “negotiated solution” and reported “progress towards an agreement in principle,” the EU is also making robust preparations for a potential trade war. Brussels has signaled its readiness to impose retaliatory tariffs on a wide array of US goods, including Bourbon and Boeing 747s, should Trump proceed with his proposed duties before the Wednesday deadline.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has advocated for a high-level framework deal, acknowledging the impracticality of securing a comprehensive agreement in the short term. A key demand from the EU is immediate tariff relief for vital industries, particularly the auto sector, which currently grapples with a substantial 27.5% US tariff. The expiration of the 90-day tariff pause for dozens of countries, including the EU, on Wednesday, intensifies the pressure on these crucial trade negotiations.