The United States will impose 30% import tariffs on goods from the European Union and Mexico beginning August 1, 2025. This decision was officially announced by President Donald Trump via a post on his social media platform Truth Social. The announcement was reported by G.Business , citing Truth Social.

Trump’s message to the EU: "No reciprocity"

In a published letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Trump explained the motivation behind the new tariffs:

“Our relationship has unfortunately long lacked reciprocity. Starting August 1, 2025, we will impose a 30 percent tariff on goods from the EU entering the United States.”

This statement signals a significant escalation in Trump's protectionist trade agenda and comes amid ongoing transatlantic negotiations over tariffs and trade balance.

EU’s hopes for a trade deal under threat

According to a report by Bloomberg, the EU had been actively negotiating a new trade agreement with the United States. However, those discussions are now described as being on the verge of collapse — primarily due to differences regarding agricultural products and automotive exports.

EU officials reportedly submitted a three-page draft agreement that included proposed quotas for certain import categories. Trump’s tariff announcement suggests those efforts may no longer be relevant.

More countries targeted: Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Canada

Earlier this week, Trump introduced similar tariff measures for additional trade partners, including:

  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Canada
  • Brazil

He also announced a flat 50% import duty on copper, affecting international metal markets and potentially straining relations with resource-exporting nations.

Moldova now included in U.S. tariff measures

In a lesser-expected move, Trump also mentioned Moldova, stating that all imports from the country will be subjected to a 25% tariff starting August 1. He justified the measure by citing a “prolonged and unsustainable trade deficit” with the Eastern European country.

“Beginning August 1, 2025, we will impose a 25 percent tariff on all Moldovan goods imported into the United States, in addition to existing sector-specific tariffs,” Trump wrote in a separate statement.

Reactions from Brussels and beyond

The European Commission expressed concern about the potential damage to economic stability and supply chains across the continent. An EU spokesperson responded:

“The European Union remains committed to balanced dialogue but will not accept unilateral economic aggression without response.”

Diplomats in Brussels warned that the escalation may trigger retaliatory tariffs and further weaken trust between transatlantic partners.

The U.S. government's move to impose sweeping import duties signals a new phase of global trade tension. With multiple countries targeted and sensitive sectors like agriculture, automotive, and raw materials involved, the full geopolitical and economic impact remains to be seen.

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