A trade agreement with the European Union is coming, according to US President Donald Trump, who has reassured that it will “100% happen” in order to avoid a 20% tax that is scheduled to go into force in July. Nonetheless, experts warn that China would try to sabotage Trump’s efforts in the US-EU trade talks if the US administration keeps enacting broad tariffs, including ones that target China. Here are the opinions of experts that spoke with Fox News Digital regarding the current dynamics of trade between the US, EU, and China.
Trump’s confident stance amid tariff tensions
President Trump’s latest comments regarding the US-EU trade agreement highlight his optimism that it will be finalized soon, as the EU is keen to avoid the 20% tariffs that would be applied to a number of commodities beginning in July. Trump has changed the dynamics of international trade by enacting these tariffs as part of a larger plan to defend American sectors like steel, aluminum, and autos.
However, the US and its longstanding European allies are now at odds over this tough trade strategy, with many EU members doubting the US’s dependability as a long-term trading partner.
China eyes opportunity in US-EU strain
As Trump ramps up his global tariff initiatives, particularly a staggering 245% tariff on imports from China, Beijing is looking to take advantage of the growing friction between the US and the EU. According to experts interviewed by Fox News, China may see an opportunity to weaken the US’s negotiating position with Europe by offering attractive trade deals to the EU.
While European leaders may be under political pressure to have close ties with the United States, Elaine Dezenski, senior director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, pointed out that despite the risks, the thought of turning toward China could be alluring. It might be difficult for certain European leaders to come out as weak with Trump, considering the election dynamics in Europe. Even while turning to China is perilous, it might be alluring, Dezenski said.
