The European Union stands firm in maintaining its stringent food safety rules and resisting pressure from the United States to align with American agricultural standards or sever ties with China, as reported by senior sources in Dublin and Brussels. The European Commission emphasized that the EU’s high food safety standards are non-negotiable in trade discussions with the US, along with regulations concerning tech and social media companies.

During recent talks between EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington, DC, the EU delegation highlighted the complexities of the pharmaceutical supply chain, cautioning against potential disruptions from tariffs. Despite the US pushing for changes, such as lifting restrictions on American agricultural products, EU sources expressed reluctance to allow items like hormone-treated beef or chlorine-washed chicken into the EU single market due to anticipated public and farming lobby opposition.

While the EU remains open to certain adjustments in non-sensitive agricultural areas, it is cautious about compromising on key food safety standards. Negotiators are working to clarify the US administration’s demands to potentially reach a tariff suspension agreement. Brussels also downplayed the idea of severing ties with China to facilitate a trade deal with the US, emphasizing their strategy to manage risks in relations with China.

In response to the US trade actions, the EU is preparing for possible retaliatory tariffs on US imports. Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s investigation into pharmaceutical imports could lead to tariffs on EU exports, including significant amounts from Ireland. The path to a trade agreement between the EU and US appears challenging, with both sides maintaining firm positions on key issues.