The EU is pushing for a quick trade agreement with the US to prevent increased auto tariffs, as negotiations resume amid rising tensions.
European Union countries are pressing for the swift implementation of a trade deal with the United States to avoid higher auto tariffs, reports Reuters.
EU Parliament and Council representatives will resume talks on Wednesday regarding legislation aimed at lowering duties on imported US goods. The assembly is seeking multiple safeguards before approving the measure.
US President Donald Trump stated last week that he would raise tariffs on EU cars and trucks to 25 percent because the bloc had not complied with the terms of the deal struck in Scotland last July. Nine months later, EU tariffs on US industrial goods remain in place.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged for a rapid agreement, stating that the US had finalized its side while Europe had not. Manfred Weber, head of the European People's Party, also called for a swift conclusion to allow for approval this month.
Bernd Lange, chairman of the parliament's trade committee, expressed that Trump's behavior was unacceptable and justified stronger safeguards. He will lead negotiations for the assembly and host a meeting with lawmakers.
Ignacio Garcia Bercero of the think tank Bruegel warned that the tariff threat was partly aimed at pressuring EU parties. He cautioned against rushing, arguing that escalation could be counterproductive.
