13th Jul 2025 09:59
(Alliance News) - Ireland's deputy premier Simon Harris has described an announcement from Donald Trump that the EU and Mexico will face a 30% tariff on imports to the US from August as "deeply regrettable".
The US president warned he would impose even higher import taxes if either of the US trading partners decided to retaliate.
A statement on behalf of the tanaiste said: "Simon Harris has taken note of the letter issued by the US today.
"This is deeply regrettable.
"He shares in the disappointment expressed by President (Ursula) Von Der Leyen and Commissioner (Maros) Sefcovic, with whom he remains in close contact."
Harris said: "There is no necessity to escalate the situation or to further increase the additional tariffs which have been imposed on the EU.
"The government strongly supports the efforts by the European Commission to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with the US.
"The EU is at the negotiating table and will remain there.
"Now is the time to redouble our efforts and to seek to achieve positive results in the time available.
"The EU will remain united and focused as negotiations continue between now and 1 August.
"This will also be my continuing focus for the period ahead.
"On Monday I will meet with the US ambassador to Ireland and will continue to engage with colleagues across the EU in the days ahead. I also intend on updating colleagues further at the cabinet meeting on Tuesday."
By Jonathan McCambridge, PA
source: PA
Copyright 2025 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.