Trump Tariffs Stir Global Response: EU Pushes Back, India Postpones Key Trade Talks

Global Reaction to U.S. Tariff Moves: The recent rulings and actions on U.S. tariffs have triggered strong reactions across the world. Last Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s global tariffs as illegal, only for Trump to reimpose them at 10% initially, then raise to 15%. The move has drawn firm responses from multiple countries, including the European Union (EU) and India.

EU Stands Firm
The European Commission, representing 27 EU member states, has made it clear that it will not accept any increase in tariffs. The statement came after Trump imposed new tariffs on India and several other countries following the Supreme Court verdict. The Commission emphasized that the situation undermines fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial transatlantic trade and investment, as outlined in last year’s EU-U.S. trade agreement.

According to the Commission, the U.S. must fully clarify its next steps following the Supreme Court ruling. Last year’s agreement had set a 15% U.S. tariff on most EU goods, with specific exceptions such as steel and zero tariffs for certain products like aircraft and parts. In return, the EU had reduced or waived certain import duties on U.S. goods. The Commission warned that unexpected tariff hikes disrupt trade and weaken global market confidence.

Impact on India-U.S. Trade Talks
Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision, India has also taken action. Scheduled talks between Indian and American trade negotiators in Washington, originally set for 23 February, have been postponed. The discussions, aimed at advancing an interim trade agreement, will now be rescheduled to a later date.

India’s move comes amid Trump’s decision to raise tariffs from 10% to 15% with immediate effect. As a result, India faces a total tariff burden of approximately 18.4% on affected goods. The postponement reflects the need to reassess trade strategies in light of sudden tariff changes and ensure negotiations proceed on favorable terms.