Tariffs on China would hit both rich and poor in EU

US President urges EU to place tariffs on China

A 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods would ripple through Europe, squeezing both luxury consumers and ordinary households as the region's reliance on Beijing has deepened. More than 70 percent of Europe’s imports of yachts, musical instruments, and even Christmas decorations now come from China, a Moneycontrol analysis of UN COMTRADE data shows.

Christmas decorations

The dependence spans categories both essential and symbolic. In consumer goods, China accounted for nearly 74 percent of Europe’s Christmas decorations and more than 70 percent of athletic and gym equipment in 2024. Luxury segments are equally exposed, with 72 percent of Europe’s yacht imports and 73 percent of shawls, scarves and mufflers sourced from China.

Microwaves and toasters

Industrial and household items face similar risks. Over 82 percent of certain fluorinated chemical derivatives come from China, along with nearly 77 percent of microwave ovens, 84 percent of electric toasters, and more than half of washing machines. Everyday items such as embroidery fabrics, artificial flowers and wigs also have import shares exceeding 65 percent.

Musical boxes

Cultural staples, too, are vulnerable. Europe sources more than 74 percent of its musical boxes and 66 percent of its sound reproduction equipment from China. Over half of brass-wind instruments and keyboards originate there as well. Even in food, products like tilapia and eels are predominantly Chinese imports.

On September 13, US President Donald Trump urged European nations to impose tariffs of 50-100 percent on Chinese goods to pressure Russia over the Ukraine war. In a Truth Social post, Trump coupled the proposal with a call for NATO members to halt oil purchases from Moscow.

Ridiculous war

…I believe that this (halt on purchase of Russian oil by NATO), plus NATO, as a group, placing 50% to 100% TARIFFS ON CHINA, to be fully withdrawn after the WAR with Russia and Ukraine is ended, will also be of great help in ENDING this deadly, but RIDICULOUS, WAR. China has a strong control, and even grip, over Russia, and these powerful Tariffs will break that grip,” Trump said. The US has already imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian goods in August in a bid to wean New Delhi away from Russian oil.