Donald Trump reiterated his hostile message towards the European Union at the beginning of trade negotiations to resolve the trade war. He accused the EU of taking advantage in trade relations and not buying enough US products.
This message contrasted with that of one of his economic advisors, Kevin Hassett, who claimed that significant progress was being made. This highlights the internal inconsistencies within the Trump administration's approach to negotiations.
Maroš Šefčovič's visit to Washington marked the third since Trump's return to the White House, following a video conference and a 90-day truce in the trade war, which was partially forced by market pressures. The EU also paused its retaliatory tariffs for 90 days.
The article emphasizes the chaotic and arbitrary nature of Trump's trade policy. The exemption of mobile phones, computers, and other technological products from reciprocal tariffs was implemented without prior announcement, causing confusion and contradictory statements from Trump and his advisors.
Trump's decision to exempt certain companies from tariffs, like Apple, due to its investment commitments has been criticized for its arbitrariness and potential favoritism toward companies with close ties to the administration. The article points out that much of Apple's pledged spending was already planned.