The European Union has decided to postpone its retaliatory trade measures against the increased tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on steel and aluminum imports. Originally scheduled for April, the tariffs on U.S. goods totaling 26 billion euros will now be implemented in mid-April. These tariffs will cover steel, aluminum, American beef, poultry, bourbon, motorcycles, peanut butter, and jeans.

President Trump also plans to introduce reciprocal tariffs by adjusting U.S. duties to match those of other countries on April 2. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the timing of the tariffs has been adjusted to ensure a balanced approach that considers the interests of EU producers, exporters, and consumers while minimizing negative economic impacts.

EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, who has been engaged in discussions with U.S. officials to avoid a tariff war, highlighted the dynamic and uncertain nature of the situation. Postponing the measures will allow the EU to assess the potential effects of Trump's reciprocal tariffs and negotiate for a mutually agreeable solution.

Von der Leyen emphasized the EU's opposition to tariffs, stating that they are detrimental to consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. The EU aims to find solutions that do not involve tariffs, prioritizing mutually beneficial trade relationships.