Initially, the European Union planned a 50% tariff on US whiskey from April 1

The European Union (EU) delayed its plans to retaliate against President Donald Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs until mid-April.

Initially planned to take effect on April 1, the duties were set to be placed on US products, including a 50% levy on whiskey.

The EU says the delay would allow more time to negotiate with the US.

France and Italy had criticized the bloc for escalating the dispute, while US alcohol industry leaders welcomed the delay, hoping to avoid tariffs.

Meanwhile, the White House plans new global tariffs, with the EU as a key target. Trump has suggested a 25% tariff on all European products, citing unfair trade practices that harm US exports.