The European Union is set to urge the United States to implement key aspects of their transatlantic trade deal, including the reduction of steel tariffs, during high-level talks in Brussels. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with EU trade ministers to discuss the trade agreement struck in July.

The deal established a 15-percent US levy on most EU exports, but both sides are seeking additional trade concessions. The EU is pushing for the US to lower its 50 percent duties on steel and aluminum, while the US is demanding that the EU roll back its green and digital rules. EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic emphasized the need for further work, particularly on steel and derivatives, where the EU seeks to reduce tariffs and address global overcapacity.

In August, the US added 407 product types to its list of steel and aluminum “derivative products” subject to higher tariffs. However, Sefcovic downplayed expectations of a breakthrough, describing the talks as a “stocktaking exercise.” The EU is also seeking a broader “metals alliance” with the US to protect their economies from Chinese overcapacity.

Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen views the talks as an opportunity to discuss stabilizing trade relations between Europe and the US, as well as common challenges such as the global trade system and China. Some EU ministers have prioritized the steel issue, with Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys emphasizing the need for a normal agreement on steel and aluminum.

The talks will focus on implementing the joint statement agreed upon in August, including reducing steel tariffs to 15 percent. While this was not explicitly mentioned in the August text, the EU is seeking steel import quotas in its talks with US officials. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of transatlantic trade relations and addressing common challenges faced by the EU and the US.