EU trade chief Maroš Šefčovič extended a conciliatory gesture toward Washington just two days after the U.S. president took office. Speaking to POLITICO on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, Šefčovič emphasized the EU’s willingness to engage constructively with the new administration, despite the tariff threats frequently issued by former President Trump. This marked Šefčovič’s first major interview since assuming his role in December.
“We are closely monitoring the signals coming from the White House,” Šefčovič stated. “Our position is clear: we are ready to collaborate. We aim to propose a comprehensive cooperation package and address the concerns of our American partners.”
Trump’s repeated threats to impose tariffs have caused significant anxiety in Brussels and across the EU, particularly given the bloc’s struggling economy. His promise to levy punitive tariffs on China has also sparked fears that Chinese exports originally destined for the U.S. could flood European markets, further complicating the economic landscape.
Šefčovič’s comments align with a broader strategy outlined by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who, without directly naming Trump, highlighted Europe’s readiness to expand partnerships with like-minded allies and other nations with shared interests. Von der Leyen had previously suggested that Europe could deter potential U.S. tariffs by increasing imports of American liquefied natural gas or military equipment.
Despite Trump’s rhetoric, he has not enacted universal tariffs since taking office. However, he has persistently criticized the EU, accusing it of creating an imbalanced transatlantic trade relationship. “They don’t accept our cars or farm products in meaningful amounts. We have a $350 billion trade deficit with the European Union. They treat us unfairly, so tariffs are coming,” Trump declared at the White House.
Šefčovič’s remarks reflect an effort to de-escalate tensions and pursue a more cooperative transatlantic trade relationship. By emphasizing dialogue and mutual interest, the EU signals its readiness to reset relations with the U.S., even as it navigates the challenges of Trump’s combative trade policies.
