As ECB Contemplates Rate Move, Storm Clouds Gather Over Eurozone

Bloc’s economy appears to have slowed, coinciding with mounting tensions over trade and the strength of the euro

FRANKFURT—Trade disputes and a stronger currency are threatening a hard-fought economic recovery in the 19-nation eurozone, potentially delaying a move by the European Central Bank to follow the Federal Reserve in increasing short-term interest rates.

Trade conflicts are a particular concern for the ECB because the region escaped the lingering effects of its debt crisis in part due to the strength of its export sector.

But...