The possibility of US tariffs in Europe: von der Leyen "Brussels is ready to negotiate, but will not accept blackmail".EU prepares retaliation against Big Tech

The European Union prepares to react firmly against the protectionist policies of US President Donald Trump. After the announcement of the possible introduction of new duties on European products, Brussels is considering the adoption of an extraordinary instrument: the Anti-coercion regulation (ACI). Already defined as the European “bazooka”, this regulation allows the EU executive to impose restrictions on trade in services. This instrument would therefore allow target Silicon Valley's big digital companies by suspending intellectual property rights protection or limiting access to European financial markets.

According to sources such as the Financial Times, the EU is considering developing a retaliatory measures that include the possibility of blocking the marketing of software and streaming services, Besides limit foreign direct investment by Big Tech American.

The European intention to act firmly

Donald Trump has repeatedly said he wants to impose new tariffs on European products, accusing Brussels of hindering American technology companies and maintaining a large trade surplus in the goods sector. However, while the US is recording a trade deficit of 155,8 billion euros with the EU as regards goods, they boast a assets of 104 billion euros in services, a sector that could become the next battlefield.

The European Commissioner for Trade, Maroš Sefović, he has declared: "If we are hit, we will react firmly. We are evaluating all available options.». Among the supporters of a harder line there is also France, with the Minister of Foreign Trade Laurent Saint-Martin, who stressed the'importance of acting quickly: "Speed ​​is crucial. We need to be more united and ready than ever before.».

The role of China 

China is carefully watching the moves of Washington and Brussels, proposing itself as a strategic partner for Europe. The spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Lin Jian, said that Beijing is ready to work «to intensify strategic communication and strengthen cooperation».

This opening could represent a turning point for EU-China relations, especially if Trump were to escalate his trade war. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, reiterated the importance of a multilateral dialogue, stressing that «Brussels is ready to negotiate, but will not accept blackmail».

Protection of services and intellectual property

Among the measures under study, one of the most significant is the Suspension of intellectual property rights protection for American Big Tech. This could have a immediate impact on streaming platforms, software and digital services, blocking their access to the market European.

Another possibility is theapplication of new tariffs on financial and insurance services of US companies operating in Europe, a sector in which the US has a strong presence.

Tajani: “Dialogue is needed, but the EU will be ready”

The Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, he said he was confident about the possibility of finding an agreement with Washington: "The European and American economies are deeply intertwined. Trade wars do not benefit anyone. We need to talk and negotiate a solution that protects our common interests.».

The EU, however, does not rule out adopting restrictive measures if Trump's threats come true. The final decision could come in the coming weeks, when Brussels will have a clearer picture of the White House's real intentions.

The European Union is therefore at a crucial crossroads: negotiate a trade truce with Washington or respond forcefully to Trump's protectionist policies. While the diplomatic option remains on the table, Brussels is preparing its legislative arsenal to defend European interests.