Core Points - The article discusses the escalating trade tensions between the United States and the European Union, particularly focusing on the U.S. decision to increase tariffs on EU goods, which has sparked a potential trade war [1][3][9] Group 1: U.S. Tariff Actions - The U.S. has proposed raising tariffs on most European goods to 15% or higher, exceeding the EU's previous compromise target of 10% [1] - The U.S. maintains a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum and a 25% tariff on automobiles from the EU, which has put significant pressure on European economies, especially Germany [3] - Trump's recent letter indicated that the new 30% tariff would take effect on August 1, marking a 10 percentage point increase from the previously proposed 20% [3] Group 2: EU's Response - Germany has shifted from a conciliatory stance to a more aggressive position, indicating readiness to implement retaliatory tariffs and other countermeasures against U.S. actions [4] - The EU is preparing a first round of counter-tariffs valued at €21 billion, with a second round of €72 billion already on the agenda [7] - The EU is considering measures such as limiting U.S. companies' access to public procurement markets and introducing a digital services tax [7] Group 3: Internal EU Dynamics - There are divisions within the EU regarding the response to U.S. tariffs, with countries like France advocating for immediate retaliation, while export-oriented nations like Germany prefer negotiation [9] - The EU's strategy includes sincere negotiations, preparation for countermeasures, coordination with other countries, and enhancing competitiveness [7] - The deadline of August 1 is approaching, and if the U.S. maintains its stringent demands, a global trade war seems inevitable [9] Group 4: Broader Implications - The article suggests that the U.S. tariff policies are reshaping global trade dynamics, with Germany's newfound assertiveness reflecting a broader resistance to unilateralism and protectionism [9] - Strengthening cooperation between China and the EU is seen as a strategic move to counter U.S. tariffs, with significant trade volumes between the two regions [6] - The evolving situation indicates a potential shift towards a new multilateral trade order, as countries seek to resist unequal trade rules imposed by the U.S. [9]
特朗普关税步步紧逼,德国这次不忍了:如果美国想打仗,美会得偿所愿
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-07-22 04:51