Washington, D.C. – In a move aimed at fostering renewed trade negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday the postponement of a proposed 50% tariff on European Union (EU) goods. Originally set to take effect on June 1, the tariffs will now be delayed until July 9, providing both parties additional time to address trade concerns.
The decision followed a significant phone conversation between President Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. During the discussion, von der Leyen expressed her readiness to engage in "serious negotiations" to resolve ongoing trade disputes.
Speaking to reporters in Morristown, New Jersey, before returning to Washington, President Trump emphasized the urgency of reaching a resolution. “I told those who needed to listen, they must act. President von der Leyen assured me that immediate efforts would be made to find common ground,” he stated.
The delay marks a temporary de-escalation in tensions that had risen following President Trump’s earlier social media post on Friday, where he criticized the EU as “very difficult to deal with” in trade matters. The President had warned of the impending tariffs, claiming the negotiations were "leading nowhere."
President von der Leyen welcomed the decision, reiterating the importance of U.S.-EU trade relations. "The EU and the U.S. share one of the world’s most significant and interconnected trade relationships. Europe is prepared to move quickly and decisively in these negotiations to reach a mutually beneficial agreement," she stated, noting the necessity of additional time until July 9.
The EU is a vital trading partner for the United States, with the two economies accounting for a substantial share of global trade. Observers believe this delay may pave the way for constructive discussions aimed at resolving long-standing disputes over tariffs, regulatory standards, and market access.
The global community will closely monitor the developments in the coming weeks, as the outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for international trade dynamics.
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