President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping tariff policy targeting the European Union and Apple, marking one of the most aggressive trade moves of his administration. The new tariffs, set to take effect on June 1, will impose a 50 percent duty on all imports from the EU.
Trump justified the decision by citing ongoing trade disputes with Brussels, arguing that negotiations have stalled and that the EU has long taken advantage of American businesses. This is not just about trade, it is about reasserting American dominance in global markets.
EU COMMISSION DECLINES TO COMMENT ON U.S. TRADE TARIFFS UNTIL CALL BETWEEN EU TRADE CHIEF AND U.S. TRADE REPRESENTATIVE
— *Walter Bloomberg (@DeItaone) May 23, 2025
In addition to the EU tariffs, Trump has issued a direct warning to Apple. Any iPhones sold in the United States must be manufactured domestically, or they will face a 25 percent tariff. The announcement sent Apple’s stock tumbling, with shares dropping more than 2 percent in premarket trading. This move forces Apple into a difficult position, as its supply chain is deeply entrenched in China and India.
Apple has been shifting production to India in response to previous tariffs on Chinese goods. The company’s reliance on foreign manufacturing has been a point of contention for Trump, who has repeatedly urged CEO Tim Cook to bring production back to the United States. The administration is making it clear, American companies must prioritize domestic manufacturing or pay the price.
The European Union has yet to respond formally, but trade experts warn that retaliatory measures could be imminent. The EU has previously imposed counter-tariffs on American goods in response to similar actions. This could escalate into a full scale trade war, with consequences for businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.
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