EU ready to respond with tariffs: Ursula von der Leyen announces possible measures against service exports
The European Commission is considering introducing an “anti-coercion” instrument that could target U.S. digital service exports if talks with Washington fail.
Photo: EU2017EE Estonian Presidency, CC BY 2.0
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU is ready to implement countermeasures against the U.S. if trade negotiations fail, The Guardian reports.
For the first time, Brussels is considering the use of an “anti-coercion” instrument that would affect U.S. service exports, especially in the digital sector.
In response to the U.S. tariff suspension, the EU has temporarily postponed its countermeasures, but has already prepared a list of U.S. imports worth about €21 billion.
The introduction of a tax on advertising revenue in digital services is also being considered.
Von der Leyen emphasized that the EU will not revise key rules, including VAT and digital content standards, and called U.S. actions a turning point in global trade.
Recall that on April 10, the EU froze the introduction of trade countermeasures against the U.S. for 90 days, hoping to reach a deal following Donald Trump’s tough statements.
Brussels stressed that dialogue remains a priority, but if no compromise is reached, the prepared sanctions will take effect immediately.
At the same time, the European Commission continues working on additional measures. EU officials said that all options remain on the table to protect member states' interests.