EU wants till 9 July for US commerce talks, chief says

The EU’s chief has mentioned she is able to transfer “swiftly” to agree a commerce take care of the United States, however says the bloc wants till 9 July to agree a “whole lot”.

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen mentioned she had a “good name” with US President Donald Trump on Sunday – two days after he expressed frustration with the tempo of negotiations with the EU and threatened to impose 50% tariffs.

Trump final month introduced a 20% tariff on most EU items, however later halved it to 10% till 8 July to permit time for negotiations.

Von der Leyen mentioned Europe was “able to advance talks swiftly and decisively” and “to achieve a very good deal, we would wish the time till 9 July”.

In remarks to reporters on the White House on Friday afternoon hours earlier than talks with the bloc, Trump mentioned he deliberate to lift tariffs on all items despatched to the US from the EU to 50% by 1 June, citing impatience at negotiations.

Later on Friday, the EU’s commerce chief Maroš Šefčovič reaffirmed the bloc’s dedication to securing a good deal.

Following a name with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, he mentioned: “The EU’s absolutely engaged, dedicated to securing a deal that works for each.”

He continued: “EU-US commerce is unmatched and have to be guided by mutual respect, not threats. We stand able to defend our pursuits.”

Trump has lengthy criticised what he views as an unfair commerce relationship with the EU, regardless of the bloc being one among Washington’s largest buying and selling companions. Last yr, the EU exported greater than $600bn (€528bn; £443bn) in items to the US whereas importing $370bn price, in line with US authorities knowledge.

The president has particularly raised considerations on commerce in vehicles and agricultural items. Although some tariffs have been paused earlier this yr to permit for negotiations, a 25% levy on EU metal and aluminium stays in place.

European leaders proceed to warn in opposition to escalation. France and Germany have known as for a diplomatic resolution, stressing that tariffs would hurt each economies.

The EU has threatened – and paused – its personal measures in opposition to the US.

It mentioned it might introduce a 25% tariff on €18bn ($20bn; £15bn) price of US items coming into Europe however this was placed on maintain.

The bloc can be at the moment consulting on further measures in opposition to US imports into the US valued at €95bn.