During a plenary debate on the EU’s response to US trade measures, S&D leader Iratxe García Pérez called for a strong EU position in negotiations with Donald Trump regarding tariffs, while countermeasures are on hold for up to 90 days. She emphasised that certain laws, such as digital regulations, taxation, and safety standards, should not be subject to negotiation.
Iratxe García stated that Donald Trump and his worldview pose a direct threat not only to international trade but also to our democracies. She pointed out that Trump’s unjustified tariffs, threats to industries, and constant intimidation are clear manifestations of authoritarian economic nationalism that disregard international law and cooperation.
She said the European Union must negotiate with Trump from a position of strength and remain steadfast on its non-negotiables: digital regulations, taxation, and safety standards. If necessary, the EU should respond with the same force as the attacks it faces.
Iratxe García emphasised that the priority should be the EU’s workers, consumers, and businesses, along with defending the rules-based international order and a strong, reformed World Trade Organization. She highlighted that the EU’s essential non-negotiables are the rule of law and European legislation.
“We are a unique model. We cannot accept blackmail to change the progress we have made, such as the welfare state, equality, or sustainability. We have the tools and we must use them: targeted tariffs on strategic US sectors, as well as on Trump’s economic and political interests; the adoption of sanctions and taxes on Big Tech companies that violate our rules; and the exclusion of US companies from European public procurement. The use of the anti-coercion instrument should allow us to strike and be in a better position to negotiate,” she stated.
She added that at the same time, the EU must also strengthen the domestic market, boost domestic demand, and support the industries and regions most affected by this trade war with a direct aid plan.
“And let’s not forget that the world is bigger than Trump – 80% of our exports go to other markets. We need to diversify our alliances and make progress on the agreements under negotiation,” Iratxe García concluded.
