French Officials Criticize EU Trade Deal Amid Concerns Over U.S. Influence
Key figures from the French government expressed dissatisfaction over a recent trade agreement with the U.S., which secures a 15 percent tariff on most EU imports to counter the forthcoming 30 percent duties scheduled for August 1. Senior officials claimed that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and her team did not fully utilize the EU’s substantial single market and yielded too much to U.S. President Donald Trump, reports 24brussels.
“Let’s be clear: The current situation is unsatisfactory and cannot be sustained,” stated Europe Minister Benjamin Haddad on X platform.
Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin emphasized on FranceInter radio that France should not accept the terms of the recent agreement, arguing it undermines Europe’s status as an economic powerhouse. He remarked, “This deal is not balanced so we will have to keep working.”
Both Haddad and Saint-Martin highlighted the need for Brussels to leverage the Anti-Coercion Instrument, which would enable the EU to limit U.S. firms’ access to EU markets. However, it remains uncertain how adjustments could be made to the agreement that has already been finalized at high diplomatic levels.
French President Emmanuel Macron has yet to publicly address the situation as of Monday morning. In contrast, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni swiftly praised the trade deal.
This commentary reveals broader concerns within the EU about maintaining economic sovereignty and negotiating power amid external pressures. The ongoing discourse reflects a pivotal moment for Europe as it navigates complex international trade relationships.
The negotiation outcomes and responses may reshape future EU trade policy and strategies as officials grapple with balancing national interests against the backdrop of strong U.S. influence in international trade agreements.
