BRUSSELS — The European Commission has unveiled a comprehensive list of American products that may face retaliatory tariffs in response to the recent imposition of 25 percent global tariffs on steel and aluminum by the Trump administration. This extensive 99-page document prominently features an array of items ranging from meat and poultry to fruits, vegetables, and alcoholic beverages.
Among the more surprising inclusions are chewing gum, communion wafers, nicotine vapes and patches, and even women’s négligées. The list appears designed not only to address economic concerns but also to target aspects of American culture, featuring goods such as outdoor apparel, tents, workshop tools, and household appliances. Heavy machinery, snowplows, and motorcycles are also highlighted, indicating a broad approach to potential economic repercussions.
Strategic economic measures
This strategic assortment of products aims to inflict economic pressure on the home states of Republican lawmakers who might sway Trump to reconsider his trade policies. Typically, officials involved in such trade negotiations acknowledge that compiling these lists can be one of the more engaging aspects of their responsibilities.
Earlier on the same day, the European Commission detailed a two-phase retaliation plan that encompasses €26 billion in EU exports, significantly escalating a trade dispute that began during Trump’s first term. Absent a negotiated resolution, the EU intends to reinstate measures in response to €8 billion in U.S. tariffs, which include iconic American brands like Harley-Davidson motorcycles, bourbon, and jeans. Furthermore, additional countermeasures commanding over €18 billion in newly imposed U.S. tariffs will be implemented from mid-April, pending approval from EU member countries.
Seeking stakeholder input
In an effort to gauge the impact of these U.S. tariffs, the EU executive has initiated a survey targeting those who may be affected. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their responses by the deadline of March 26, as the Commission gathers insights to inform its next steps.
“The lists are typically designed to cause economic pain in the home states of Republican lawmakers who could influence Trump to abandon his trade war.”