EU’s Von der Leyen Defends ‘Strong, If Not Perfect’ Trade Deal

(Bloomberg) – European Commission President Ursula von Der Leyen defended Bloc’s trade agreement with the United States and argued that it stabilized and avoids tensions with a key ally.

A trade war between the European Union and the United States was “celebrated by Russia and China.

“Instead, we agreed to a strong agreement, even if it wasn’t a strong agreement,” he said, retaliation tariffs were at risk of inciteing a cost conflict with negative consequences for our workers, consumers and industries ”.

Von der Leyn faces a 15% tariff, unlike other US trade partners, which are given new base rates on existing tariffs. “This allows European goods to access the US market under more favorable conditions, which gives EU companies an important advantage.”

Last month, the preliminary agreement with US President Donald Trump in Scotland received criticism from European MPs and industrial groups. Last week, the two sides progressed towards formalization of the pact, reducing taxes in European cars and potentially detailed plans to open the door for future discounts in steel and aluminum.

European officials say they will continue to print for lower tariffs such as wine and alcoholic products after not securing exemptions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended the agreement on Saturday, and although tariffs focused on the German economy, a complete trade war with Washington said it could be much worse.

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