Trump Renews Tariff Threats Against EU, Targets Irish Exports and Apple with June 1 Duties
Dublin – U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed his tariff threats against the European Union, announcing plans to impose sweeping duties beginning June 1, in a move that targets key European exports—including those from Ireland—and global tech giant Apple.
The unexpected announcement marks a dramatic escalation in trade tensions between the U.S. and the EU, coming just as global markets were showing signs of stabilisation following recent tariff disputes. Trump’s new proposal includes a 50% tariff on a range of EU goods, including luxury items, pharmaceuticals, and other products manufactured in Ireland and across the Union. Additionally, Apple could face a 25% tariff on all iPhones sold in the U.S. that are not manufactured domestically.
The proposed tariffs would significantly impact Apple, which sells over 60 million iPhones annually in the U.S., none of which are currently manufactured there. While it remains legally unclear whether such tariffs can be selectively applied to a single company, President Trump claimed on Truth Social that he had already warned Apple CEO Tim Cook about the measure, urging the company to move production to the U.S.
“If iPhones sold in America are made in India or elsewhere, Apple will pay at least a 25% tariff,” Trump stated.
Markets React Sharply
Trump’s tariff announcement triggered immediate negative reactions across global financial markets.
- S&P 500 futures dropped by 1.5% in premarket trading.
- The Euro Stoxx 600 index fell 2%, while shares of tech firms, including Apple, declined by 3.5%.
Analysts described the move as a potential blow to the fragile recovery in global trade, especially given the lack of advance notice or clarity on the implementation timeline.
Irish and EU Leaders Warn of Severe Consequences
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin condemned the proposed tariffs, warning that such measures could “devastate the global economy”. He called the announcement “alarming”, particularly given ongoing efforts by the EU to engage in good-faith negotiations with the United States.
“This move, coming without warning, undermines diplomatic progress and poses a serious threat to transatlantic trade,” said Martin.
Foreign Minister Simon Harris echoed the concerns, stating that Ireland and the EU remain committed to a negotiated resolution. He confirmed that Dublin would engage with EU institutions, member states, and business stakeholders to address the implications of the U.S. announcement.
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