EU and US trade talks heat up over tariffs

The European Union is gearing up for tough trade talks with the United States as a July 9 deadline looms. The U.S., led by President Donald Trump, is pushing to keep a 10% tariff on EU goods, which could lead to higher costs for European exports. In response, the EU is ready to slap tariffs on American products, like Boeing airplanes, if no fair deal is reached.

EU officials, including industry chief Stephane Sejourne, say they’ll fight back if the U.S. sticks to an unfair plan. The EU wants a balanced agreement, but talks are stuck. The U.S. demands, such as limits on fish exports, are causing friction and might break global trade rules. Meanwhile, the UK has secured a trade deal with the U.S., but it doesn’t cover everything, like steel tariffs.

With just two weeks left, pressure is mounting. Countries like Canada and Japan are also struggling to finalize deals with the U.S. If no agreement is made, tariffs could jump higher than 10%, hurting businesses and consumers. The EU is hopeful but firm, aiming for a deal that protects its industries while avoiding a full-blown trade war.