Trump: Let Europe Block American Ag Imports, "I Don't Mind"

 

We have a feeling that a whole new bunch of Trump voters will be having a visit from the face-eating leopards:

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday shrugged off the European Union's reported push to block imports of U.S. soybeans and other foods made to different standards, warning such a move would only hurt Europe itself.

Trump, speaking to reporters after a quick trip to Daytona Beach for the Daytona 500 car race, said the U.S. was sticking to its plans to start implementing reciprocal tariffs.

"That's alright. I don't mind. Let them do it. Let them do it. It's just hurting themselves if they do that," he said.

 

The Financial Times reported earlier on Sunday that the European Commission would agree next week to explore tough import limits on certain foods made to different standards in an effort to protect its farmers, echoing Trump's reciprocal trade policy.

 

Early targets could include U.S. crops such as soybeans grown using pesticides that EU farmers are not allowed to use, the report said, citing three officials it did not name.

 

Asked about the report earlier, a White House official earlier said Trump was fighting for fair and reciprocal trade and would stand up for American farmers.  [snip]

Tensions are running high between the U.S. and the EU after Trump's decision to impose 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum from March 12; reciprocal tariffs from April; and separate tariffs on cars, pharmaceuticals and semiconductor chips.

 

All those tariffs would stack on top of each other, U.S. officials have said.

 

"But, we took Trump seriously but not literally!"  First, putting USAID "in the wood chipper," cutting off a significant market for American farmers.  Next, retaliatory tariffs.  The Malignant Fascist and President Musk couldn't be doing a better job of destroying America from within if they were Putin ... hmmm.

BONUS:  More reaction here.

(Photo:  Justin Merriman/ Bloomberg News)