European Union trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič acknowledged on Monday that the EU has offered zero-for-zero tariffs for cars and industrial goods, as mentioned by the EC's president von der Leyen earlier today.
The official also said that the discussions between the U.S. and EU are in the early stages as the United States view tariffs not as a tactical step but as a corrective measure. "We are fully prepared to sit at the negotiation table whenever our American partners are ready," he added.
Šefčovič also highlighted that the block remains open to negotiation, but will not wait endlessly. He noted that the vote on countermeasures on steel and aluminium is expected on Wednesday. "If the vote is positive, then we will proceed with 15 April," Šefčovič added.
In addition, the EU's trade commissioner pledged to strengthen trade and investment ties with partners, like India, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines or in the Gulf region, and to protect the EU Single Market, EU producers, and EU consumers.