The U. S. and EU have decided to postpone a planned 50% tariff on EU imports.  This change came after a conversation between President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.  Trump mentioned that the delay was requested by von der Leyen.  She wanted more time to negotiate.  This is not the first time Trump has threatened tariffs only to delay or cancel them later.  It is part of a pattern of behavior that has left many people confused.

In early June, Trump had stated that he was not interested in making a deal with the EU.  He had set a 50% tariff rate to take effect on June 1.  This would have followed a 20% reciprocal tariff he had imposed in April.  Both of these tariffs were delayed at some point.

Von der Leyen had also mentioned the call with Trump.  She stated that the EU and US have a significant trade relationship.  She also mentioned that the EU is ready to start talks quickly.  She believes that July 9 is a good deadline for reaching a deal.

Following the news of the delay, stock markets in Asia saw some gains.  Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose by 0. 8%, while South Korea’s KOSPI gained 0. 9%.  China’s Shanghai Composite Index edged up by 0. 3%.  Taiwan’s TAIEX and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 remained relatively flat, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index slipped by 0. 3%.

Trump has often complained about "non-monetary trade barriers. "  These are rules and regulations that make it hard for U. S. companies to sell their products in other countries.  He has also targeted countries or trading blocs that run trade deficits with the United States.  This happens when the U. S. buys more from another country than that country buys from the U. S.  Last year, the U. S. had a $236 billion trade deficit with the EU.

Trump also discussed his views on manufacturing.  He stated that he agrees with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.  Bessent had mentioned that the U. S. does not need to bring back textile manufacturing.  Trump wants the U. S. to focus on making military equipment and advanced technology.  He believes that these are more important for the country’s future.

Trade Talks: U. S. and EU Hit Pause on Tariffs

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