European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen today announced the following decision by US President Trump to suspend mutual tariffs, a step she called "an important step towards stabilizing the global economy."
President von der Leyen stressed the importance of clear and predictable terms of trade for the functioning of global supply chains, reiterating that "tariffs are taxes that only harm businesses and consumers." She reiterated her continued support for the zero-tariff agreement between the European Union and the United States aimed at restoring balance and certainty in transatlantic trade.
In her statement, von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU's commitment to constructive negotiations with the United States to achieve conflict-free and mutually beneficial trade, and stressed the need to diversify trade partnerships. The EU continues to deepen its engagement with countries that account for 87% of global trade, based on the shared values of open, rules-based trade.
These comments reflect concerns expressed by EUROMETAL and other industry stakeholders during recent consultations with the European Commission, during which the risks of increased trade barriers, especially in the steel, aluminum and derivatives sectors, were clearly identified.
In conclusion, President von der Leyen stated: "My team and I will continue to work day and night to protect European consumers, workers and businesses. Together, the Europeans will come out of this crisis stronger."
The statement confirms the shared vision of open trade, strategic autonomy and long-term sustainability of industry in Europe.
