German chancellor slams US tariffs, promises swift EU response

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has criticised the US decision to impose tariffs, labeling it as wrong, and affirmed that the EU would take swift action in response.

Speaking at a joint press conference with European Council President Antonio Costa in Berlin, Scholz emphasized the need for fewer trade barriers rather than more, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

He expressed his disagreement with the US tariff measures, stating, "We need fewer trade barriers, not more. That is why I believe the US tariff decisions are incorrect."

Scholz assured that the EU would respond to the move appropriately and promptly, highlighting the bloc's commitment to defending its economic interests and maintaining smooth international trade relations. 

Earlier, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič, announced that the EU will implement trade countermeasures against US goods starting April 1, in response to Washington's tariffs. Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised that the EU's measures will be strong but proportionate. She clarified that Brussels is open to substantive dialogue with Washington and has tasked Šefčovič with continuing negotiations with the US in search of better solutions. According to a statement from the European Commission, the EU's retaliatory measures could affect US exports worth up to 26 billion euros ($28 billion). 

On February 10, US President Donald Trump ordered the imposition of a 25 per cent customs tariff on all steel and aluminum imports into the US due to foreign supply concerns. The decision which came into effect on March 12 applies to imports from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, South Korea, Japan, as well as EU member states.

By Naila Huseynova