EU ministers want a broader deal with the US that would cut tariffs and smooth over trade relations.
The European Union’s trade ministers are aiming to land an even more ambitious trade deal with the US than a recent deal struck between the UK and the US. This is in retaliation to tariffs already in place on European steel, aluminium and car imports. At issue for the EU in wanting a better deal is the wish to get rid of these or lower these punitive tariffs whilst ducking retaliatory action
Where the EU Stands on the US Trade Deal 
The US, with President Donald Trump in the driving seat, has put a 25% tariff on EU steel, aluminium and car exports. In addition, there are 10% tariffs on nearly everything else, effectively slapping a big trade barrier between the world’s two largest economies. Britain has done some spadework, like concluding a limited bilateral trade agreement with the US, but the EU thinks a much bigger deal is needed.
BILATERAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UK AND THE US
US President Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer last week agreed a trade deal that would tackle some of the tariff issues. But this agreement still leaves in place the 10% tariffs on British exports, though higher rates on steel and cars have been rolled back. However EU ministers, while they accept that an agreement has been struck with the UK, they claim the deal does not go far enough in providing fair trade and tariff cuts for the rest of the European markets.
Why EU Ministers Are Seeking a Better Deal
EU officials say it is holding on to US tariffs would not suffice to repair the trade conflict between the two regions. The EU is not to be discounted when it comes to economic sway — and an even wider deal that would also cover the tariff barriers as well as other impediments to trade is considered key to future growth and partnership. In the absence of an agreement, the EU could have to respond with retaliatory measures to defend its sectors, raising the stakes in the trade spat.
Follow through: Negotiations and Post Brexit Trade Relations
The EU remains dedicated to finding a trade agreement that eliminates current hurdles making trade between the EU and the US easier and more profitable for both parties. Trade between these regions has such enormous economic significance that for long-term prosperity it is essential to settle trade disputes and create fairer trade policies. STICK OR TWISTR As the negotiations wear on, the EU’s line is unyielding – a bigger deal is obligatory if there is to be something in it for everyone.
