EU Unveils 202-Page Countermeasure List Targeting $84 Billion in U.S. Goods, Including Aircraft and Whiskey

On July 15, multiple news outlets reported that the European Commission signaled its readiness to impose further retaliatory tariffs on U.S. products valued at 72 billion euros (approximately 84 billion dollars), should negotiations between the European Union and the United States fail to reach a resolution. The list of targeted goods includes high-value U.S.-manufactured items such as aircraft, automobiles, chemicals, and electrical components, along with other products including whiskey and nails.

According to international media sources, the EU has compiled a 202-page document outlining its proposed countermeasures. Items prominently featured include American-made aircraft and whiskey. One proposal previously under consideration was a 50% tariff on bourbon whiskey originating from Kentucky. In response to that, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if such tariffs were enacted, the United States would retaliate by levying a 200% tariff on alcoholic beverages exported from Europe.

On the same day, German Chancellor Merz stressed that the United States should not underestimate the European Union’s resolve to implement reciprocal tariffs. He noted that the EU remains well-equipped to respond proportionally to any excessive duties imposed by the U.S., although it is currently showing restraint in order to expedite resolution of the trade disagreement.

European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič, was scheduled to hold further discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai on July 15, continuing from conversations held the previous day with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The Commission reiterated its desire for a constructive outcome despite the ongoing tariff tensions. Previously, on July 13, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed an extension of the EU’s temporary suspension of its countermeasures against U.S. tariffs until early August—a decision that has faced criticism from within the bloc.