Brussels, 14 February 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The European Commission on Friday criticized plans by US President Donald Trump to impose reciprocal tariffs on goods from countries with which Washington has a high trade deficit.

"The European Commission views President Trump's proposed 'reciprocal' trade policy as a step in the wrong direction," a statement read.

The new tariffs will not come into force immediately. Instead, the relevant authorities have 180 days to identify the affected countries and impose country-specific tariffs on this basis, according to a senior administration official.

The commission reiterated that Brussels would be ready to impose countermeasures.

"The EU will react firmly and immediately against unjustified barriers to free and fair trade, including when tariffs are used to challenge legal and non-discriminatory policies," the press release said.

"The EU maintains some of the lowest tariffs in the world and sees no justification for increased US tariffs on its exports," the commission said.

"Tariffs are taxes. By imposing tariffs, the US is taxing its own citizens, raising costs for business, stifling growth and fuelling inflation."

Previously Trump had announced special tariffs on steel and aluminium imports.

MIA file photo