Part 7/10:
Finally, the EU could opt for a robust retaliation, imposing broad tariffs across multiple U.S. imports. A flat 20% tariff, for instance, would convey seriousness and might prompt the U.S. to reconsider its aggressive tariffs. Notably, the EU holds substantial leverage in certain sectors, particularly digital and service industries where the U.S. is heavily invested. France has already suggested targeting American tech giants like Apple and Google.
One of the EU's strongest legal tools is the Anti-Coercion Instrument, which could weaponize tariffs beyond mere financial penalties. The EU could deny business licenses to U.S. firms, restrict access to valuable public contracts, and even impede investments from the U.S.