EU files complaint against U.S. tariffs with World Trade Organization
EU targets U.S. goods with tariffs after auto trade dispute escalates.
The European Union is taking formal steps to contest the United States’ imposition of tariffs on EU cars and car parts, announcing Thursday that it will file a case with the World Trade Organization.
The European Commission argues that the US tariffs constitute a “clear violation of international trade rules,” and is requesting consultations through the WTO’s dispute settlement mechanism, reports Cryptopolitan.
Countermeasures and Economic Implications
In parallel with the WTO filing, the EU is preparing a list of US products worth €95 billion ($107.4 billion) that could face retaliatory tariffs. The targeted goods include automobiles, medical devices, chemicals, and agricultural products, with bourbon and other American spirits potentially in the crosshairs.
The move follows the Trump administration’s threat of a 20% reciprocal tariff on all EU imports and a 25% levy on imported vehicles.
EU Softens Emissions Rules Amid Trade Tensions
In a bid to shield its domestic auto industry from potential US tariffs, the EU approved a measure to ease car emissions regulations. The initiative allows automakers to average vehicle emissions over a three-year period from 2025 to 2027, providing more flexibility in meeting carbon targets.
The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association welcomed the reform as “much-needed flexibility,” but environmental groups criticized the decision as a setback for climate policy.
Recently we wrote that the Eurozone economy grew by 0.4% in the first quarter of 2025, doubling most forecasts and signaling surprising resilience amid U.S. trade pressure and subdued consumer activity.
