The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, stated that they have prepared additional measures in response to the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States. Issuing a warning about an increase in inflation, von der Leyen called on the United States to enter negotiations. During the AB-Central Asia Summit in Samarkand that followed the announcement of reciprocal tariffs by the U.S., von der Leyen expressed deep regret over the tariffs announced by President Donald Trump targeting all countries, including the EU, as they would severely impact the world economy. Von der Leyen emphasized that the reciprocal tariffs would have enormous consequences, stating, “The global economy will suffer greatly, uncertainty will increase, and protectionism will rise further. The consequences will be horrific for millions of people worldwide.”

Warning of an increase in inflation, von der Leyen highlighted the immediate effects of the tariffs, stating, “Millions of citizens will face higher grocery bills. Medicines and transportation will become more expensive. Inflation will increase.” She also pointed out that uncertainty would rise, supply chains would be disrupted, and costly bureaucracy would emerge, significantly increasing the cost of doing business with the United States. Von der Leyen highlighted the absence of order in the global trade system, attributing the chaos and confusion among trade partners to the United States. She acknowledged that there were serious deficiencies in the global trade system and agreed with President Trump that some parties benefited unfairly from it.

Emphasizing readiness to support any effort made to align the global trade system with economic realities, von der Leyen clarified, “But I want to make one thing clear. Resorting to tariffs as your first and final resort will not solve the problem.” Reminding that they were always prepared to negotiate with the U.S. to remove obstacles to transatlantic trade, she added, “At the same time, we are ready to respond. In response to tariffs on steel, we are already completing our first retaliatory measures. Now, if negotiations fail, we are preparing for further countermeasures to protect our interests and businesses.” Von der Leyen indicated that they would closely monitor the indirect effects of the new tariffs, stressing, “We will not accept overcapacity or dumping in our market.” She reassured that they would defend Europe’s interests and values, and explained that issues could be addressed through negotiations.

Stressing the need to be prepared for the inevitable effects of U.S. tariffs, von der Leyen stated, “Europe has everything it needs to weather this storm.” President Trump announced that starting the next day, the U.S. would impose reciprocal tariffs on other countries, with a base tariff rate of 10 percent. The plan includes reciprocal tariffs of 34 percent for China, 20 percent for the EU, 46 percent for Vietnam, 32 percent for Taiwan, 24 percent for Japan, and 26 percent for India.