Sefcovic: “No aid to agribusiness, advantageous position from tariff agreement”

Brussels – The agreement signed with the United States on trade matters is good; it puts the EU and its exports, including agri-food exports, in a privileged position compared to other international players. That is why there is no question, nor is there any intention to come to the aid of the agricultural sector. These are the words of the European Trade Commissioner, Maros Sefcovic, who, responding to a parliamentary question on the subject, brushes aside criticism and accusations. 

“The EU is the only trading partner of the United States with an all-inclusive tariff rate” of 15 per cent, he reminds. “For all other trading partners, reciprocal tariffs are in addition to the ones imposed on most-favoured nations” in bilateral trade. For this reason, Sefcovic claims, “the new tariff treatment puts EU exports, including dairy, wine, or other products, in an advantageous position compared to other exporters around the world, as duties on agri-food products are generally higher.” 

In light of this situation, “the Commission is not considering the activation of measures to support the affected sectors,” the Trade Commissioner makes clear. The EU executive “will continue to monitor market developments and take measures to protect farmers and stabilise markets where necessary.” 

The Commission’s words and stance risk further inflaming the debate on Wednesday’s (10 September) State of the Union address. The European Parliament does not like the agreement negotiated and announced by the President of the European Commission herself, Ursula von der Leyen, at the centre of cross-criticism and subject to two different draft censure motions. Countries such as France, Italy, Belgium, and Ireland, concerned about the consequences on agricultural products, wines, and spirits, have already expressed interest in obtaining exemptions. The MEPs will now put new pressure and obtain guarantees and explanations on the conduct of an EU executive that is not considered up to the task.