### The EU gets a respite until July 9 for surcharge of 50 %
The global commercial context is at the crossroads, particularly with regard to transatlantic relations between the European Union (EU) and the United States. Recently, the threat of imposing a surcharge of 50 % on European products by US President Donald Trump aroused considerable concerns. However, an exchange between Mr. Trump and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, made it possible to suspend this decision until July 9. This article looks at the implications of this respite and the dynamics at stake in the commercial relations between these two entities.
#### Return to pricing threats
Customs duties, when used as pressure instruments, may have repercussions that far exceed the economic domain. They affect companies, consumers and even diplomatic relations. The idea of a 50 % rate had already worried many economic players, causing the stock markets. This measure could also have impact several key sectors of the European economy, such as the automobile, aeronautics, and the food industry, creating uncertainties on prices, production and employment.
Thus, the postponement of this decision is an opportunity for the EU to enter into a constructive dialogue with the United States. The question arises nevertheless: what could Europe offer in order to avoid an escalation of this commercial tension?
#### The challenges of a renewed dialogue
The postponement of surcharge is part of a context where the EU tries to make its voice heard in a multipolar and often unstable world. The economic and health crisis caused by the pandemic exacerbated already existing tensions; And now the importance of maintaining stable relations with the United States seems essential for the economic recovery of the two blocks.
President Von Der Leyen has already indicated that Europe is ready to discuss possible compromises. This could include discussions on the regulation of larger industries or economic agreements aimed at facilitating exchanges between the two regions. What concessions could be envisaged on both sides? Transparency, the search for common solutions on issues such as industrial subsidies, or even cooperation on global issues such as climate and security are all relevant axes.
#### The role of economic actors
Companies, especially those that import or export goods between the EU and the United States, often find themselves on the front line of the consequences of this type of tensions. The reaction of the market in the face of the initial announcement of the surcharge demonstrates an increased sensitivity with regard to political fluctuations. Many economic players plead for more predictability and commercial insurance in order to plan their investments without fear of unforeseen complications.
It is therefore essential to listen to these voices which, very often, express realistic concerns about the impact of political decisions on their activity. Collaboration initiatives between the private sector and government bodies could strengthen the constructive exchanges necessary for successful negotiations.
#### An opportunity to seize
In the end, the postponement of customs duties represents a precious opportunity for the EU to show its will to negotiate and engage in discussions that could lead to beneficial compromises. To resolve these disagreements will have impacts not only for the 27 Member States, but also for the global economía, at a time when international cooperation is more than ever necessary.
Nevertheless, the question that everyone must ask is that of the sustainability of these communication efforts. Will they be enough to establish mutual trust? The road to a common agreement will not be free from obstacles, and it will be crucial for both parties to remain open and engaged in a constructive dialogue.
As the EU and the United States are advancing around July 9, the stake does not only reside in tax decisions, but also in the way these two major players can sail together in a tumultuous economic landscape. This period of respite is perhaps an opportunity to transform threats into opportunities to promote stronger and harmonious trade relations.