The European Union will impose retaliatory tariffs on €26 billion ($28 billion) worth of US goods starting next month, the European Commission announced on Wednesday, escalating a growing trade dispute with Washington.

The move follows President Donald Trump’s sweeping 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports, which took effect Wednesday as previous exemptions and duty-free quotas expired.

The EU will lift its suspension of tariffs on US products on April 1.
A new package of countermeasures will be introduced by mid-April.

The EU’s retaliatory tariffs will apply to around €18 billion in goods, aiming to offset the economic impact of Washington’s latest restrictions.

Proposed targets include:
Steel and aluminium products
Textiles and home appliances
Plastics and chemicals
Poultry, beef, eggs, dairy, sugar, and vegetables

Previously suspended tariffs on US goods such as boats, bourbon, and motorcycles will also be reinstated.

The European Commission will conduct a two-week consultation to determine additional US products that could face tariffs.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the EU’s countermeasures will roll out in two phases, stating:

“Our countermeasures will be introduced in two steps, starting on 1 April and fully in place by 13 April.”

Despite the trade escalation, von der Leyen signaled a willingness to negotiate, adding:

“We are ready to engage in meaningful dialogue. I have entrusted Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic to resume talks and explore better solutions with the US.”

With tensions rising between Brussels and Washington, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether trade talks resume—or if the transatlantic tariff war deepens.