The European Union has firmly declined a request from former U.S. President Donald Trump to impose coordinated customs duties on Chinese imports, signaling a significant policy divergence. According to diplomatic sources, while acknowledging the need for certain measures, European officials have no current plans to implement additional tariffs.
A senior European diplomat emphasized that the EU’s strategic focus remains on applying severe economic sanctions against Russia, rather than engaging in trade restrictions that could weaken Europe’s own economy. The official clarified that the bloc aims to avoid actions that might inadvertently harm its economic interests.
The position extends beyond China, with Brussels also ruling out new tariffs on India, which European authorities believe would not serve the EU’s strategic interests.
Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bassent indicated that Washington would not proceed with additional tariffs targeting China’s ability to purchase Russian oil without European participation. “We expect Europeans to do their part now, and we will not move forward without Europeans,” Bassent stated.
The development comes after Trump’s earlier announcement proposing what he described as “large-scale sanctions” against Russia, including potential tariffs ranging from 50-100% on Chinese goods as part of a broader strategy to limit Russia’s oil revenue. European officials, however, have made clear they believe Trump cannot effectively confront China without forming a united front with European partners.
