BRUSSELS — The European Union remains committed to finalizing a trade agreement with U.S. President Donald Trump by July 9, despite the recent decision from Washington to delay a deadline regarding universal tariffs until August 1.
Olof Gill, the European Commission’s trade spokesperson, stated on Monday that they are aiming for an agreement in principle at the very least by the midweek target.
The Trump administration’s announcement on Sunday to extend the tariff deadline has added complexity to the ongoing negotiations. The tariffs, which would revert to their rates from April 2 for countries that do not finalize new trade deals, were discussed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a briefing.
Despite the U.S. postponement, the European Commission insists they remain on track to meet the Wednesday deadline for a preliminary deal, which is expected to include a baseline tariff rate of 10 percent.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reportedly had a productive dialogue on trade with President Trump over the weekend. However, Brussels has expressed frustration over the U.S.’s unpredictable approach, characterizing the situation as a “sorry saga,” according to Gill.
On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump revealed that various countries would receive letters stating their tariff rates, leaving EU officials uncertain about their position in the grouping. An EU diplomat emphasized the need for clarity from the U.S. before determining the next steps, noting there are no plans for an emergency meeting among the EU’s 27 national ambassadors.
It is anticipated that the U.S. will categorize its trade partners based on their progress in negotiations. The first group may include countries like the U.K. and Vietnam, which have already reached preliminary agreements and could benefit from additional tariff reductions.
Countries engaged in good faith discussions but without an agreement would see the universal tariffs reinstated, while a third group, viewed as making insufficient progress, could face significantly higher tariffs.
The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s recent announcement has revived the debate within the EU over whether it would be more advantageous to pursue a quick but potentially imperfect deal rather than prolonged negotiations.
Prominent EU member states, including Italy and Germany, have expressed optimism for swift negotiations, even if it means conceding more to the U.S., provided it results in lowered tariffs on key sectors.
Similarly, nations like Ireland and Hungary that heavily rely on exports have also aligned with this viewpoint. On the other hand, France and Spain have taken a more confrontational stance, pushing for a tougher approach against the U.S. demands.
However, French Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin indicated on Monday that France might consider supporting a deal with the U.S. that involves universal tariffs on EU exports, provided it allows for preferential treatment for critical sectors.
The delay in U.S. negotiations raises further questions regarding the EU’s previously paused retaliation measures. The first round of countermeasures, which affects approximately €20 billion worth of U.S. imports such as cranberries and soybeans, is on hold until July 14.
A more significant second round targeting major U.S. companies like Boeing remains to be finalized, requiring a vote before implementation.
Gill described the negotiations as being in the “beginning of the endgame,” at least concerning an agreement in principle.
“We’re fully geared up to get an agreement in principle by Wednesday. And we’re firing on all cylinders to that effect,” he affirmed.
Additional reporting by Giorgio Leali in Paris. This story has been updated.
image source from：politico
