French President Emmanuel Macron has sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on nearly all trading partners, calling the move “brutal” and “unfounded.” Macron proposed a temporary suspension of European investments in the U.S. until the dispute is resolved.
“What message would it send to have major European companies investing billions in the American economy at the very moment they are penalizing us?” Macron said during a meeting with French industry leaders in Paris. “We need collective solidarity.”
The remarks came after Trump’s administration announced a 20% tariff on EU imports—double the previous 10% rate applied to most goods. Macron warned that the measure would harm “all sectors” of Europe’s economy and described it as a “shock to international trade.”
EU Prepares Staged Response to U.S. Tariffs
Macron said the European Union would respond in two phases: an initial reaction by mid-April, followed by a “more massive” countermeasure after consultations with member states. He urged unity among European nations, cautioning against individual deals with Washington.
“The biggest players have a tendency to go it alone, and that’s not a good idea,” Macron said. “We must remain united and determined.”
The tariffs are expected to significantly impact French exports, with wine and spirits sales projected to drop by at least 20% in the U.S. as costs are passed to consumers. Sectors such as automobiles, pharmaceuticals, steel, and aluminum face even higher duties.
Francis Bayrou, Macron’s political ally and a senior French official, called the tariffs “an immense difficulty for Europe” and “a catastrophe for the United States and its citizens.” Macron warned that the measures would weaken American firms and households while delivering a “massive” blow to Europe.
EU Weighs Retaliatory Measures, Including Economic Coercion Tool
Facing what he called an “unprecedented” challenge, Macron said the EU should leverage its single market of 450 million consumers to craft a “unified, strong, and resolute” response. The European Commission has signaled openness to retaliation but emphasized that negotiations remain the priority.
“Nothing is excluded. All instruments are on the table,” Macron said, echoing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Among the options is the EU’s economic coercion tool, enacted in 2023 but never used, which allows for retaliatory tariffs, trade restrictions, and investment limits. Macron also hinted at targeting U.S. digital services and financial mechanisms but did not specify details.
“We must not rule out anything in the short term,” he said. “Our response must be effective, proportionate, and demonstrate our resolve to defend our interests.”