BRUSSELS (AP) - The EU's top trade official says the U.S. knew it would face consequences if it put tariffs on European steel and aluminum imports, as motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson prepares to move some factories outside the U.S.
Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said Tuesday that "there has to be consequences if you do not respect international, global rules."
She said it was clear that U.S. businesses and consumers would "put pressure on the American administration to say: 'Hey, hold on a minute. This is not good for the American economy.' And that's what's happening."
Malmstrom also said the EU is investigating whether steel or aluminum previously destined for the U.S. is now arriving in Europe due to the tariff move. She said the EU Commission could introduce counter-measures in mid-July.
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(AP Photo/Virginia Mayo). European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstroem speaks during a media conference at EU headquarters in Brussels, Tuesday, June 26, 2018. European Commissioner Malmstrom on Tuesday presented the annual report on Trade and In...
(AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File). FILE - In this April 26, 2017, file photo, rows of motorcycles are behind a bronze plate with corporate information on the showroom floor at a Harley-Davidson dealership in Glenshaw, Pa. Harley-Davidson, facing rising c...
(AP Photo/Virginia Mayo). European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstroem speaks during a media conference at EU headquarters in Brussels, Tuesday, June 26, 2018. European Commissioner Malmstrom on Tuesday presented the annual report on Trade and In...