How Trump's tariffs could spark a trade war and 'Europe's worst economic nightmare'

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How Trump’s tariffs could spark a trade war and ‘Europe’s worst economic nightmare’
European countries could be among those hardest hit if Trump follows through on tariffs. The European Union says it wants to negotiate but is prepared to retaliate.


Shipping containers are stacked in Hamburg. (Phil Noble/Reuters)

By Ellen Francis and Kate Brady
November 20, 2024 at 8:21 a.m. EST

The prospect of a trade war ignited by the Trump administration is looming over European capitals. The European Union — which counts the United States as its largest export market and one of its closest strategic allies — could be among those hardest hit if President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his tariff plans.
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Already, Europe’s major economies are lagging behind the United States in their post-pandemic recovery. Economists say that protectionist policies imposed by Trump after taking office in January could trigger further contraction on the continent, while straining alliances.

Here’s what to know.

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By Ellen Francis
Ellen Francis is The Washington Post’s Brussels bureau chief, covering the European Union and NATO.

By Kate Brady
Kate Brady is a researcher and reporter based in The Washington Post's Berlin bureau. She has been at The Post since early 2023 and has been reporting from Germany for the best part of a decade.follow on X @bradyinberlin