Products imported from the European Union to the United States will be subject to a 30% tariff starting August 1, US President Donald Trump said in a letter posted today on his social media platform.

In addition to the tariffs on the EU, the US president announced tariffs of 30% on products imported from Mexico to the US, also starting on August 1.

Disruption of transatlantic trade

Imposing 30 percent tariffs on EU exports would disrupt key transatlantic supply chains, to the detriment of businesses, consumers and patients on both sides of the Atlantic, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said immediately after Trump's announcements.

The EU consistently prioritizes a negotiated solution with the US, which reflects our commitment to dialogue, stability and a constructive transatlantic partnership, he stressed, reiterating the Union's readiness to continue consultations towards an agreement by August 1.

We will take all necessary measures to safeguard the EU's interests, including adopting proportionate countermeasures if required, he warned.

However, as three European officials who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity estimate, the new announcements by the American president are nothing more than a negotiating tactic.

On Thursday, the US president, in an interview with NBC, warned that a letter would be sent to the EU, which would include his decision on tariffs on European imports, which would range from 10% to 15% or even 20% – rates that ultimately proved to be modest compared to those ultimately imposed.  At the same time, Europe was hoping to reach an agreement in principle with the US, recognizing, however, that the ball is in Washington's court, amid intensifying talks between the two sides.

Earlier this week, Trump announced new tariffs on a number of countries, including Japan, South Korea, Canada and Brazil, as well as a 50% tariff on copper.