• The EU has prepared a list of US imports worth €72 billion ($84 billion) for potential tariffs amid escalating trade tensions.
• Maros Sefcovic, EU Trade Commissioner, emphasized the need for a negotiated solution and warned against the impact of US tariffs.
• European ministers expressed unity and readiness to implement countermeasures if negotiations fail.
• Potential tariffs could target various sectors including bourbon, cars, and aerospace products.
• The EU has delayed some retaliatory tariffs to allow for ongoing discussions with US authorities.

The European Union is gearing up to impose tariffs on US goods valued at €72 billion (approximately $84 billion) following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a 30 percent tariff on EU imports, set to take effect on August 1. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic confirmed this development during a meeting with EU ministers, stating, "We must be prepared for all outcomes," while highlighting the EU's desire for a negotiated resolution to the ongoing trade conflict. This response comes after diplomatic efforts to alleviate trade tensions were undermined by Trump's aggressive tariff threats, which EU officials have termed "absolutely unacceptable" according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

The EU's list of potential tariffs reflects a wide array of goods, including bourbon whiskey, cars, and aircraft. This approach aims to apply economic pressure on various American sectors. Moreover, during a press briefing, Sefcovic warned that implementing such tariffs would significantly disrupt the robust US-EU trading relationship, stating, "It prohibits the trade," and emphasizing the need for patience and creativity in pursuing negotiations. The situation represents a significant escalation in the ongoing trade war which has seen mutual tariffs imposed recently, as noted by South China Morning Post and Reuters.

During a recent meeting of the 27 EU member states, strong sentiments were expressed regarding the necessity of responding decisively to Trump's tariff threats. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen stated that there was "a total unified position among the ministers" on the need to prepare for potential retaliatory measures if negotiations do not yield fruitful outcomes. The EU has also prepared a separate list targeting US imports worth €21 billion linked to prior tariffs on steel and aluminum, indicating its readiness for a structured response, according to India Times and Africa News.

Despite the imminent tariffs, European leaders are still optimistic about reaching a compromise before the deadline. Trump has indicated his willingness to discuss alternative trade arrangements, suggesting that EU officials come to the US for negotiations. However, this peace overture is tempered by the EU's commitment to safeguard its economic interests. As articulated by Sefcovic, any agreement must also reflect the principles of fairness and mutual respect among trading partners, echoed by Al Jazeera and The Jakarta Post.