European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s demand for the EU to impose 100% tariffs on goods from India and China.
In an exclusive interview with Le Soir, von der Leyen emphasized that the EU will not comply with Trump’s request to implement such tariffs. She stated, “The EU will make its own decisions,” highlighting that the bloc’s existing sanctions package against Russia is sufficient to exert pressure on Moscow. The sanctions have been described as “ambitious and substantial,” and they are expected to play a crucial role in bringing Russia to the negotiating table.
Von der Leyen pointed out that the “increasingly complex geopolitical environment” necessitates that EU member states strengthen their partnerships based on shared interests. She specifically mentioned the importance of closer cooperation with India, noting that such ties are “more essential than ever.” This statement comes as the EU has already included twelve Chinese and three Indian entities in its 19th sanctions package for allegedly helping Russia circumvent Western restrictions.
The EU’s stance is in contrast to the United States, which has imposed significant tariffs on both India and China. In late August, Washington introduced a 25% punitive tariff on Indian goods, raising the total import duties to 50% on most items. The US cited India’s failure to reduce purchases of Russian oil as the reason for the tariffs, which New Delhi’s Foreign Ministry condemned as “unfair and unjustified.”
Meanwhile, tariffs on Chinese goods had reached as high as 145%, prompting Beijing to retaliate with duties of up to 125%. Following an agreement to temporarily lower the rates to 30% and 10%, respectively, both sides have extended the tariff pause until November. These trade measures have had a significant financial impact on global markets, further complicating an already tense geopolitical landscape.
The broader implications of this trade dispute are significant, as it reflects the deepening economic and political rift between the US and other global powers. The EU’s decision to resist Trump’s demands underscores its autonomy in trade policy while also highlighting the growing importance of partnerships with nations such as India and China in navigating this complex international environment.