Trump’s Tariff Strategy Under Strain As EU, China Push Back On Trade Threats

The Trump administration’s global trade agenda is under renewed pressure as talks with China and the EU falter, according to Bloomberg. Tensions between the U.S. and China escalated after Beijing accused Washington of violating a recent tariff truce and warned of potential retaliation. The Trump administration criticized China for delaying the removal of rare earth export controls, a key part of the deal. The White House is working to set up a call between Trump and Xi Jinping to reduce trade tensions, with expectations that the conversation could happen this week. However, Chinese officials have not publicly shown interest in the proposal. The European Union warned it will impose countermeasures if Trump proceeds with a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum. EU officials said the move would derail ongoing efforts to resolve trade disputes and confirmed they are prepared to retaliate. The president relies on tariffs and bold threats as key tools to pressure trade partners and drive negotiations during a 90-day pause on higher duties. So far, this strategy has produced limited progress. Trump has secured a broad trade framework with the UK, but deals with other key partners remain unrealized despite prior promises. His team remains optimistic, claiming Trump’s tariff threats have prompted EU engagement and could still lead to agreements.