The imposition of universal tariffs by US President Donald Trump has triggered a wave of reactions across Europe. With duties reaching up to 49% on goods from Cambodia, 34% on Chinese products and 20% on European Union exports, this move marks the most significant protectionist shift in nearly a century and reshapes global trade relations.

Accordingly, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, warns that this measure is “a major blow to the world economy” and that “the global economy will suffer massively.” She stresses that price hikes will be immediate and that citizens will face higher costs on essential goods such as food, medicine and transport. She adds, “All businesses – large and small – will suffer from day one.”

The new US tariffs are as follows:

• Cambodia: 49%
• Vietnam: 46%
• Sri Lanka: 44%
• Bangladesh: 37%
• Thailand: 36%
• China: 34%
• Taiwan: 32%
• Indonesia: 32%
• Switzerland: 31%
• South Africa: 30%
• Pakistan: 29%
• India: 26%
• South Korea: 25%
• Japan: 24%
• Malaysia: 24%
• European Union: 20%
• Israel: 17%
• Philippines: 17%
• United Kingdom: 10%
• Brazil: 10%
• Singapore: 10%
• Chile: 10%
• Australia: 10%
• Turkey: 10%
• Colombia: 10%

This sweeping tariff schedule excludes only Canada and Mexico and constitutes the largest wave of trade restrictions since the 1930s.

Germany Condemns the Return of Protectionism

Meanwhile, in Berlin, Robert Habeck, Germany’s Minister for Economic Affairs and Vice-Chancellor, describes the move as a “day of arbitrariness.” He warns that the consequences could include the collapse of key industries across Europe and Asia, alongside a potential 0.5% drop in Germany’s GDP by 2025–2026 if the tariffs persist.

“What Trump proposes is based on a misdiagnosis of the global economy. If the US enters recession, China and Europe will follow,” Habeck affirms. He also notes that the European Commission has detailed countermeasures prepared in case the US does not reverse its decision.

The UK: Pragmatic Amid Tensions

In parallel, Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade of the United Kingdom, expresses regret over the 10% tariff imposed on British exports, although he highlights that it is the lowest rate applied globally. “An unnecessary trade war serves neither national security nor the workforce,” he states.

As a result, the UK government will launch a national consultation with businesses to determine an appropriate response. Reynolds emphasises that the UK’s approach will be “measured and proportionate,” reaffirming the country’s commitment to pursuing a trade agreement with the US.

Energy and Technology Sectors Under Pressure

In addition, the energy sector has voiced its concerns. Jane Cooper, Deputy Chief Executive of RenewableUK, states that “tariffs and trade disputes drive up consumer prices and harm industry.” She warns that, combined with the White House’s recent decision to halt offshore wind projects, the tariffs could hinder technological cooperation between US and UK companies.

Likewise, Manuel Parra Palacios, Scientific and Technical Documentation Analyst at Repsol, argues that “a tariff escalation drives inflation, affects employment and obstructs the free flow of goods essential for clean tech development.” He further warns that such actions “could dismantle the basic scientific foundations vital to innovation.”

On the geopolitical front, Francesco Sassi, Energy Geopolitics and Markets Research Fellow at RIE – Ricerche Industriali ed Energetiche, points out that “global confidence in the US as a reliable energy and political partner may be undermined.” He notes this situation exacerbates “existing energy insecurities” and weakens the US position as an alternative supplier to Russia.

Europe Prepares a Unified Response

In response, Germany’s Ministry for Economic Affairs confirmed that the European Union has retaliatory measures ready, targeting agricultural and technological goods, to be implemented if the US does not back down within 14 days. “Trump responds to pressure. To force change, he must feel it,” asserts Habeck.

Nevertheless, von der Leyen insists Europe remains open to dialogue: “From the beginning, we were ready to negotiate. But relying solely on tariffs will not fix the flaws in global trade.”

A Systemic Threat to the Global Economy

Finally, economic forecasts reinforce the urgency of the situation. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy estimates that, should the tariffs remain in place, US GDP could fall by up to 1.9%, with China losing 0.6% and Germany 0.5%.

Given that transatlantic trade exceeds €1.2 trillion and supports over 15 million jobs, the consequences of this commercial confrontation could endure for years. As von der Leyen concludes: “If you attack one of us, you attack us all. Our unity is our strength.”