EU, Mexico Hit Back at Trump’s Threatened 30% Tariffs

The European Union and Mexico have sharply criticised former US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 30% tariff on their imports, scheduled to take effect from 1 August.

Mexico denounced the proposed tariffs as an “unfair deal” and firmly rejected any compromise on its sovereignty. The EU, meanwhile, warned of “proportionate countermeasures” if the US enforces the new import duties. Both sides, however, signalled a continued willingness to negotiate.

Trump, in letters sent to both the EU and Mexico, justified the move by citing “persistent trade deficits” and what he described as a lack of reciprocity in existing trade relationships. He also warned that any retaliatory measures from the EU or Mexico would be met with additional tariffs beyond the initial 30%.

In a Fox News interview aired Saturday night, Trump claimed the tariffs would bring in “hundreds of billions of dollars,” acknowledging that some countries were “very upset now.”

The tariffs come alongside similar moves against Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Brazil. Earlier this week, the US also notified Canada of a potential 35% tariff, while it remains unclear whether Mexican goods under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement would be exempt.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the bloc’s readiness to reach a deal by the August deadline but emphasised the need to defend EU interests. “We will take all necessary steps, including countermeasures, if required,” she stated.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed strong disapproval and urged faster preparations for a response. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni voiced hope for a fair deal, while Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof called for unity within the EU.

In Germany, the automotive industry expressed concern over rising production costs, warning of further escalation in trade tensions.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed optimism about reaching a resolution but stressed that “sovereignty is never negotiable.” Mexico’s economy and foreign ministries issued a joint statement labelling the tariff plan unfair.

Trump's letter to Mexico also criticised the country's anti-drug efforts, stating that not enough had been done to prevent North America from becoming a “Narco-Trafficking Playground.”

The US administration has now proposed tariff actions against 24 countries and the EU. Earlier in April, White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said the goal was “90 deals in 90 days.” So far, two preliminary deals have been announced — with the UK and Vietnam — as talks continue.