EU-U.S. Trade Talks Make Headway Despite Rising Tariff Tensions

 PARIS, June 4, 2025 — Trade negotiations between the European Union and the United States appear to be gaining momentum, despite fresh tensions triggered by Washington’s decision to double tariffs on European steel and aluminium imports. The development comes as top negotiators from both sides met in Paris on Wednesday in an attempt to defuse growing trade discord.

Maros Sefcovic, the EU’s chief trade negotiator, met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer early Wednesday, just hours after the new tariffs officially took effect. The meeting was part of an ongoing effort to find common ground amid escalating pressure from European industries alarmed by the potential economic fallout.

"We both concluded that we are advancing in the right direction, at pace," Sefcovic told reporters following the meeting. He confirmed that technical negotiations are continuing in Washington, with more high-level engagements planned in the coming weeks.

“What makes me optimistic is I see the progress … the discussions are now very concrete,” Sefcovic said, adding that both parties had agreed to recalibrate their negotiating framework by “approaching it from different angles.”

The talks are unfolding against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s latest push for trade concessions from U.S. allies. The administration has asked trading partners to submit their “best offers” by early July to avoid further punitive tariffs across a range of sectors.

European businesses have expressed growing concern over the renewed tariffs, urging the 27-nation bloc to take decisive action to prevent further economic strain. Industry groups have warned that increased costs and trade barriers could significantly disrupt manufacturing and export competitiveness across the continent.

Sefcovic, while maintaining a cautiously hopeful tone, criticized the doubling of tariffs as an unhelpful move that undermines ongoing dialogue.

“The tariff decision doesn’t help our negotiations,” he said, emphasizing the importance of building mutual trust and constructive cooperation.

As the clock ticks toward the July deadline, both sides face mounting pressure to turn goodwill and progress into tangible agreements that could stabilize transatlantic trade relations.