EU prepared to act if US trade talks collapse - Polish minister
Minister for EU Affairs Adam Szlapka said on Tuesday that if trade negotiations with the United States fail, the European Union will consider all options to defend its interests, including filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO).
In early April, US President Donald Trump suspended for 90 days his just introduced 'reciprocal' tariffs on goods from countries with which the United States runs a trade deficit, including EU member states. Intensive negotiations between Brussels and Washington are ongoing in an effort to ease trade tensions.
Szlapka, speaking during a debate in the European Parliament in Strasbourg, reiterated the EU's view that Washington's imposition of additional tariffs on the bloc is unjustified.
"Tariffs are taxes paid by businesses and ultimately by consumers. They raise import costs, disrupt supply chains, and force companies to either absorb the expense or pass it on through higher prices, increasing inflation," he said.
He added that while the EU welcomed the US decision to suspend some tariffs for 90 days, it remains deeply concerned about the prospect of new duties and the uncertainty the US administration's announcements have introduced into the global economy.
"We understand that the US aims to strengthen the resilience of its domestic industrial base and enhance economic security. However, we believe the proposed tariffs are not the right way to achieve those goals," he said.
He added that the EU is united on the matter and seeks dialogue with the United States.
"But let me be clear: we will defend our interests and rights if necessary... There is broad agreement in the Council (among EU member states - PAP) on the need to work on possible further countermeasures to complement those already in place," he said.
He argued that if negotiations do not bring the desired results, the EU will consider additional steps, "keeping all options on the table, including a WTO complaint."
The WTO dispute system allows member states to challenge breaches of international trade rules. (PAP)
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