🌍 In a move shaking up the global trade scene, the European Union (EU) has slammed U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. The EU warns it will \"respond firmly\" if it becomes the next target. 💥
\"The EU regrets the U.S. decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China,\" an EU spokesman said, highlighting the disruption these tariffs cause to international trade. He emphasized the importance of \"open markets and respect for international trade rules,\" noting that tariffs \"create unnecessary economic disruption and drive inflation. They are hurtful to all sides.\" 📉
The spokesman made it clear: \"The EU would respond firmly to any trading partner that unfairly or arbitrarily imposes tariffs on EU goods.\" With the EU and U.S. sharing the world's largest trade and investment relationship, he added, \"There is a lot at stake.\" 🏛️🤝
Since the start of Trump's administration, Brussels has been pushing to strengthen transatlantic ties and avoid a trade conflict through negotiation. However, Trump has doubled down, stating he would \"absolutely\" impose tariffs on EU goods. 🚧
Just this weekend, Trump signed an executive order imposing a 10% tariff hike on goods imported from China and a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. The move sparked immediate backlash and promises of retaliation. ⚖️
China's Ministry of Commerce announced that it will file a complaint at the World Trade Organization and take corresponding countermeasures to firmly safeguard its rights and interests. 🇨🇳 Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared that Canada will impose a 25% levy on $21 billion worth of American goods starting Tuesday. 🇨🇦
In Mexico, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador instructed the Secretariat of Economy to implement tariff and non-tariff measures to defend Mexico's interests. 🇲🇽
As tensions escalate, the global community watches closely. Will this tariff tussle lead to a full-blown trade war? Stay tuned! 🌐
Reference(s):
EU criticizes U.S. tariffs, vows to 'respond firmly' if targeted
cgtn.com
