EU Commission: "Big blow to the global economy"

World leaders are reacting with shock to the new import tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday evening. EU Commission President Von der Leyen had a similar reaction.

Products from the EU will face an import duty of 20 percent. "A big blow to the global economy," is how EU Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen describes the new tariffs imposed by Donald Trump. "The global economy will suffer greatly from this. Uncertainty is increasing, as is protectionism. The consequences will be severe for millions worldwide."

The EU now wants to negotiate with the US and is considering countermeasures. Countries like China face even higher tariffs: products from China will be taxed with an additional levy of 34 percent, on top of the already applicable 20 percent. Countries that export Chinese goods as transit hubs are also being heavily targeted. Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam face tariffs of 49, 48 and 46 percent respectively.

All countries, including the United Kingdom, Brazil, Turkey or Australia, will be subject to a 10 percent tariff.

(PP with HL - Source: NYT, NOS - Picture: © picture alliance / Consolidated News Photos | Jim LoScalzo- Pool via CNP)