EU Considers Blocking Key Exports to US if Trade Negotiations Fail

The European Union is preparing a proposal to introduce restrictions on certain exports to the United States as a possible retaliatory measure in the context of the trade war launched by President Donald Trump last month.

According to sources close to the plan, these restrictions would serve as a deterrent and would only be implemented if negotiations with Washington—which has imposed new tariffs on approximately €380 billion ($432 billion) worth of European products—do not produce satisfactory results.

Stalemate in US Negotiations

The prospects for a swift agreement appear increasingly unlikely following the meeting held last Monday, April 14, between EU and US officials. During this meeting, which lasted approximately two hours, EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic seemed unable to reach an agreement, according to subsequent statements.

US representatives, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, indicated that most of the tariffs imposed on the EU would remain in place. Specifically, US officials noted that the reciprocal 20% tariffs that have been paused for 90 days, as well as others affecting autos and metals, would not be eliminated outright.

For its part, the EU has warned that its countermeasures would be implemented after the 90-day grace period has elapsed and that additional measures would be added if no agreement is reached. Sefcovic posted on the social network X that the European Union remains “constructive and ready for a fair deal” with the United States, which could include reciprocity through a “0 for 0 tariff offer on industrial goods” and work on “non-tariff barriers.”

EU Threatens Countermeasures

According to sources consulted, export restrictions represent only one of several options the EU is considering as a potential response strategy. Additionally, Brussels is evaluating the introduction of additional tariffs on US products and limiting public procurement opportunities for US companies.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had already anticipated the possibility of an escalation in the standoff by recently declaring that the bloc “would not hesitate to retaliate if negotiations fail.” In her own words: “We are prepared to deploy our most powerful trade measures if we see no other way out.”

Despite the tension, President Trump has shown some optimism. He recently declared himself “very confident” of reaching an agreement with the EU before the 90-day grace period on additional tariffs expires.

Speaking to reporters after meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Trump said, “We are making substantial progress with negotiations on all fronts. Numerous countries are anxious to finalize agreements; in fact, they are more anxious than I am.”

However, financial markets have reacted negatively to the trade uncertainty. Stocks fell sharply after Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell indicated that tariffs could lead to higher inflation and reduced growth in the US economy.