The European Union expects to be spared from a planned U.S. hike in universal tariffs to 15%, despite Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s signal that the increase could take effect globally as early as this week. The bloc has received assurances that the United States will maintain the current 10% universal tariff on EU exports, according to sources familiar with the matter. Spokespeople for the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and the European Commission declined to comment. Last month, President Donald Trump imposed a 10% blanket tariff after the Supreme Court invalidated much of his previous trade enforcement regime. Conversely, other items, including certain spirits, are expected to face duties below the 15% threshold.
