# EU Warns U.S. Tariffs Could “Wipe Out” Transatlantic Trade 

European officials are warning that President Trump’s proposed 30% tariff on EU imports could effectively eliminate trade between the two powers.

July 15, 2025 • News Releases 

European officials are warning that President Trump’s proposed 30% tariff on EU imports could effectively eliminate trade between the two powers. In a statement Monday, the European Commission said the measures — set to take effect August 1- are “absolutely unacceptable” and risk sparking major retaliation, with up to $84 billion in U.S. exports at risk.

The news comes as both sides attempt last-minute negotiations to avoid economic fallout across key industries, from autos to agriculture.

Our Cato trade team is available for comment. Feel free to reach out to Emily Salamon at [esalamon@​cato.​org](mailto:esalamon@cato.org).

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