12.07.2025

Trump’s New Tariffs: Impact on Transatlantic Trade

Trump’s New Tariffs: Impact on Transatlantic Trade

US President Donald Trump has announced that starting August 1, 2025, a 30 percent tariff on imports from the European Union (EU) and Mexico will be imposed. This measure affects a wide range of goods including a 50 percent tariff on copper imports.

Background and Announcement

The announcement was made through postings on Trump’s own platform “Truth Social” as well as the publication of a letter to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The EU is currently in negotiations with the US to reach an agreement and avoid greater disadvantages for the European economy. The automotive industry, in particular, hopes for a compromise as it is heavily reliant on trade with the US.

Political Tensions and Negotiation Pressure

The background to this tariff increase appears to be political tensions and negotiation pressure from Trump’s administration. Previously, Trump announced similar tariffs against other countries such as Brazil, Japan, Canada, and South Korea. In an earlier announcement in April, a 20 percent tariff on EU goods was initially planned; however, it was temporarily suspended.

Effects of the Tariffs

  • The new tariffs are expected to significantly increase prices for imported goods from the EU in the US.
  • This could strain trade relations between the US and the EU.
  • Investors in stock markets and other investment areas are reacting alarmingly due to possible economic uncertainties caused by this protectionist measure.
  • The European Commission is intensively working for an understanding with the White House to mitigate negative consequences.

In summary, this decision represents a significant intervention in transatlantic trade and could have far-reaching consequences for companies on both sides of the Atlantic.

Sources: heise.de, Handelsblatt, Wiwo.de, Deutschlandfunk, ZDF heute