President Donald Trump’s tariff ultimatum has ignited a race for a deal, with the EU aiming to finalize a high-level “framework” trade agreement with the US before July 9th. This crucial effort seeks to avert the severe threat of 50% tariffs on all EU exports. Reports indicate the EU is willing to accept 10% blanket tariffs, but this crucial concession is tied to gaining an extension for broader talks and potential relief from the 25% car tariff, a significant concern for the German auto industry.
Optimistic signals emerged from Thursday’s meeting between EU Trade Chief Maroš Šefčovič and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent, noting the eve of July 4th celebrations, expressed the US’s desire for “a lot more trade deals.” The intensity of these high-level discussions will continue with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, with expectations for “diligent” work throughout the weekend.
The urgency stems from President Donald Trump’s ultimatum: 50% tariffs on all EU goods by July 9th unless a deal is struck. This would represent a significant escalation from current tariffs, which include 10% on most EU products and 25% on cars. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has consistently advocated for a quick, “UK-style” agreement in principle, emphasizing that a swift resolution to the tariff dispute is more important than a minutely detailed trade deal.
The EU is seeking a “standstill clause” in any extended negotiations to prevent new tariffs. While some believe a deal could be reached as early as Friday, offering Trump a celebratory announcement on Independence Day, complexities persist. Past discussions revealed extensive US “grievances,” and the latest US proposal reportedly lacks specifics on American concessions, particularly concerning the EU’s “red lines” on strategic sectors like pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, economic purchases, and non-trade barriers.