Biden Meets With EU Officials on Trade Matters

What happened: President Biden met today in the White House with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel to discuss various trade matters.

In late 2021, the United States and the European Union (EU) initiated a two-year timetable to resolve tariff issues related to Section 232 tariffs imposed on EU steel and aluminum trade. The talks have now expanded to encompass discussions on critical minerals for electric vehicles, raising hopes for broader trade negotiations.

Why it matters: U.S. exports are vital to the American economy, with agricultural exports exceeding $160 billion out of a total export value topping $2 trillion in 2022. These exports significantly contribute to agricultural job creation.

NPPC’s take: NPPC stands in favor of initiatives that eliminate or significantly reduce impediments to U.S. pork exports whether through comprehensive trade agreements and/or enforcement of international trade rules. NPPC has consistently advocated for negotiations with the EU to address tariff and non-tariff barriers.