EU Trade Commissioner Prepares for U.S. Tariff Countermeasures Amid Digital Trade Agreement Signing

At a news conference in Singapore on May 7, 2025, Maros Sefcovic, the European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, made headlines. Among the news he announced were important updates on U.S. tariff countermeasures. His remarks came right on the heels of signing the EU-Singapore Digital Trade Agreement (DTA). The Digital Economic Agreement between the European Union and Singapore, finalized in December 2019.

Signing the DTA is an important first step. It strengthens trade and investment connections and deepens digital collaboration between the two regions. Sefcovic emphasized that this agreement could serve as a model for future partnerships, especially in an evolving global economy that increasingly relies on digital trade.

In light of ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, Sefcovic assured reporters that the EU is proactive in preparing for any potential fallout. He stated, “We are working very closely with our member states, consulting industry, talking to our key stakeholders to ensure we are ready for whatever comes next.” This shows the EU’s determination to be strategically prepared as talks with Washington continue.

Sefcovic, who was in charge of the talks, stressed the importance of the negotiations. He told them that although they are indeed a priority, safety cannot come at all cost. “Negotiations clearly come first but not at any cost,” he remarked, highlighting the EU’s firm stance in the ongoing dialogues surrounding tariffs.

Sefcovic is preparing, meanwhile, to announce further details of the EU’s proposed retaliatory against U.S. tariffs. Look for his full review here on Thursday! His statements made clear that the EU intends to work toward a negotiated solution. At the same time, they are willing to go on the offensive if the discussions fail to yield acceptable outcomes.

The move is just the latest in a series of escalations in a deepening trade war between the EU and the U.S. As both parties navigate these complex negotiations, Sefcovic’s “laser-focused” approach underscores the EU’s determination to protect its economic interests while seeking amicable solutions.