Trump Delays 50% EU Tariff to July 9 Amid Trade Talks

According to recent international media reports, U.S. President Donald Trump has agreed to postpone the imposition of a 50% european tariff until July 9, following a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The tariffs were originally set to take effect on June 1. This delay aims to provide both parties with additional time to continue trade negotiations, with plans to meet in person as soon as possible to explore solutions.

Earlier on April 2, Trump announced a 20% “reciprocal tariff” on the European Union, which he later reduced to 10%, while granting a 90-day negotiation window set to expire on July 9. However, as talks showed little substantive progress, Trump threatened on May 23 to raise the us eu tariffs to 50% starting June 1. He stated that negotiations with the EU were going "nowhere," even declaring, “I'm not seeking a deal,” and that “the 50% tariff plan was already in place.”

In response, Commission President von der Leyen released a statement affirming that the EU was prepared to “proceed quickly and decisively” with trade negotiations, asserting that for a robust agreement to be achieved, talks should continue through July 9. She also confirmed that she had initiated the call with Trump, a gesture widely interpreted as a positive signal of the EU’s willingness to engage—though possibly not at the pace Trump demands.

Both U.S. and EU officials acknowledge that the trade negotiations are progressing slowly, with each side maintaining firm positions. Trump has repeatedly criticized the EU for what he describes as unfair trade practices, while the EU counters by highlighting its significant surplus in services trade with the U.S., which it argues has not been fairly considered by the American administration.

According to U.S. government data, the European Union remains one of America's largest trading partners, exporting over $600 billion worth of goods to the U.S. in 2024 while importing $370 billion from American businesses. The prospect of sweeping eu import tariffs is raising concerns among businesses on both sides.

Should Trump ultimately enforce the 50% european tariff plan, the EU is reportedly prepared with a €21 billion retaliatory tariff package targeting key U.S. exports such as corn, wheat, motorcycles, and apparel. Furthermore, a second list under discussion includes potential tariffs on Boeing aircraft, automobiles, and bourbon whiskey, valued at up to €95 billion. These developments are expected to significantly escalate tensions in the ongoing us eu tariffs conflict.

Conclusion

With the threat of Trump EU tariffs and wider us eu tariffs looming once again, importers and exporters alike face renewed challenges in managing costs, timelines, and compliance. Trade uncertainty can be unpredictable—but your shipping strategy doesn't have to be.

That's where Forest Shipping comes in. As a trusted freight forwarder, we help businesses navigate complex global trade scenarios with ease. Whether you're shipping from China to europe or the U.S., our end-to-end logistics solutions—backed by expert customs handling and flexible delivery options—keep your supply chain running smoothly, even in turbulent times.

Let Forest Shipping be your steady hand in a shifting trade landscape. Reach out to explore how we can support your business today.