The EU’s chief trade negotiator hopes to broker a “mini deal” with the US as he seeks to curb transatlantic tensions before Washington follows through with an increase in punitive tariffs on Europe’s aircraft sector.
Phil Hogan told the Financial Times that he was optimistic of progress in trade talks after Washington this month limited its retaliation against Brussels in a long-running dispute over aircraft subsidies. The US said it would increase tariffs on EU-made aircraft but delayed their introduction until March 18, while holding back on extra duties on a range of other goods.
The fact that Washington had stayed its hand for now was “sending a signal that the US [is] willing to give this window of opportunity a chance”, Mr Hogan said in an interview.