Overview

• U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is expected to press EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič to unilaterally reduce tariffs on U.S. goods during a key May 23 call.
• The U.S. has warned that failure to meet its demands could lead to the imposition of additional 20% duties on European exports.
• The EU has proposed a zero-duty, mutually agreed framework but has so far rejected unilateral concessions, leading to a deadlock in talks.
• In March and April, the U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on EU cars, steel, and aluminum, and 20% duties on other goods, later halving the latter rate until July 8 to allow for negotiations.
• The EU has suspended planned retaliatory tariffs and continues to advocate for a de-escalation to avoid a broader trade conflict.