EU lays out response to US tariffs, keeps door open for talks

The US tariffs now affect €380 billion ($416.8 billion) worth of EU exports—around 70% of the total—with duties ranging from 20% to over 25%, he noted.

"The current trade situation with the United States, our most significant partner, is in a tough spot," he said, adding that his focus has been on starting meaningful talks with the US administration and that communication with US officials has remained open and honest.

Sefcovic stressed that both the EU and the US face shared challenges such as global overcapacity, competition in semiconductors, and access to critical minerals, adding: "If we team up, we could build a truly Trans-Atlantic marketplace that benefits both sides."

He highlighted that the EU has already made a strong offer, eliminating tariffs on cars and all industrial goods.

However, Sefcovic also made clear that engaging the US will take time and effort. He noted that the US views tariffs not just as a tactic but as a correction, which means real talks are still in the early stages.

He repeated the EU’s willingness to negotiate at any time but said it will not wait forever.

"While the EU remains open to and strongly prefers negotiations, we will not wait endlessly until we see tangible progress," he said.

Until there is progress, the EU will act on three fronts. First, it will defend its interests with countermeasures.

Sefcovic said the European Commission has reviewed input from member states and more than 660 stakeholders and is ready to present a strong list of retaliatory tariffs.

That list, including exact tariff levels, will be sent to EU countries later in the day. A vote is set for April 9, and duties will be applied in two phases—starting on April 15 and May 15.

Second, the EU is working to diversify its trade by strengthening ties with countries like India, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and those in the Gulf region. Sefcovic said he wants to hear from EU chief negotiators to find ways to speed up talks for new free trade agreements.

Third, the EU will take steps to prevent harmful trade diversions and is ready to use all tools available to protect the single market, EU producer,s and consumers.

This includes boosting its import surveillance system to protect the single market and respond quickly to shifts in global trade flows.

Sefcovic also highlighted the EU’s commitment to the global trade system, despite the US stepping back from parts of it.

"The EU makes up 13% of global goods trade. Our priority, along with the rest of the WTO, is to protect the remaining 87% and make sure that the global trade system prevails for the rest of us," he said.

On China, Sefcovic shared details from his recent trip to Beijing. He said the visit focused on making the EU-China trade and investment relationship more balanced. Topics included overcapacity, unfair subsidies and market access barriers that affect European products.

The EU also raised concerns about Chinese investment in Europe’s electric vehicle sector and discussed ways to boost local sourcing and innovation.

With 91% of e-commerce packages entering the EU coming from China, Sefcovic said talks on customs cooperation were a key step forward.

"I believe that this was an important first step in putting our engagement with China on the right track,” he said.