EU and China Strike Back with Tariffs on U.S. Imports

Apr. 9, 2025
By: Marvin E. McPherson

The EU passed its tariff increase in response to Trump’s Section 232 tariffs on imports of EU steel and aluminum. The response includes 25% tariffs on a range of US imports in a first round of countermeasures. The 27-member bloc has agreed to impose retaliatory tariffs on €21bn ($18bn) of US goods, targeting farm produce and products from Republican states. All member states voted for the retaliation, with the exception of Hungary. The countermeasures will go into effect April 15, 2025. These are not retaliatory duties for the “reciprocal duties” that were delayed earlier today.

In addition, China increased tariffs on imported U.S. goods from 34% to 84% in response to the “reciprocal duties.”  (Tax Commission Announcement No. 4 of 2025) China urged the US to “immediately correct its wrong practices, cancel all unilateral tariff measures against China.” Trump Announces 90-Day Pause on Country-Specific Reciprocal Tariffs, under this order China-specific “reciprocal” tariff rate is to increase from 104% to 125%. This is likely to cause another increased response on U.S. imports into China in the coming days.

As further developments arise, we will continue to provide updated reports outlining their impact on your business. Do not hesitate to contact any attorney at Barnes, Richardson & Colburn, LLP if you have any questions.