Duties, Wsj: Trump frustrated by EU's slowness in dealing with negotiations

At the origin of Donald Trump's threat of 50% tariffs on EU products from 1 June, there would be irritation at the slow pace of negotiations with the EU, According to the Wsj, which cites sources close to the talks, Trump's advisers privately expressed their nervousness to European officials that the differing trade priorities of EU member states had slowed down the talks. The advisors have complained about what they see as Europe's cautious approach to the negotiations and what they describe as the EU's reluctance to make concrete offers that address US concerns.

Among the proposals expected from the US are tariffs on streaming services, VAT, automotive regulations and fines imposed on US companies in antitrust cases, sources told the Wall Street Journal. So far, the US has also failed to secure a commitment from EU leaders to impose new tariffs on Chinese industries, a priority for Trump administration officials who are pushing for increased trade pressure on Beijing.