• French President Emmanuel Macron warned that broad tariffs would hurt all economies, including the United States.
  • Macron urged negotiation over escalation, calling for a rules-based trade system.
  • The EU is preparing targeted responses if the US imposes new levies, but prefers a diplomatic solution.

Macron: 'Tariffs Are of No Use to Anybody'

Speaking at a press conference in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a sharp rebuke of protectionist trade policies, arguing that sweeping tariffs ultimately harm the countries that impose them. "Tariffs are of no use to anybody, including the United States," Macron said, according to people familiar with his remarks. He warned that such measures could reignite inflation, disrupt global supply chains, and backfire on American consumers.

Macron's comments come amid renewed US-EU trade tensions, with Washington signaling potential tariffs on European goods in several sectors. The French leader emphasized that negotiation, not confrontation, is the path forward. "We need a trade system that is predictable and rules-based," he added.

The EU has been coordinating a unified response, with officials drafting lists of US products that could face countermeasures if talks fail. However, Macron stressed a preference for diplomacy, saying, "Our goal is to find common ground, not to escalate."

Economic and Political Stakes

The threat of tariffs has roiled markets in recent weeks, particularly affecting automakers, aerospace, and tech hardware companies that rely on transatlantic supply chains. Analysts warn that a full-blown trade war could shave off growth on both sides of the Atlantic. "Broad tariffs would raise costs for manufacturers and consumers alike," said one trade economist.

Macron's stance also reflects broader European anxiety over US industrial policy and the risk of a decoupling that could weaken the multilateral trading system. The French president has called for a European industrial strategy to bolster competitiveness without resorting to protectionism.

What to Watch

Eyes are now on the US administration for any official tariff announcements. The EU is expected to respond swiftly but proportionately, with a focus on maintaining unity among member states. Macron's comments suggest France will continue to lead the charge for a negotiated settlement, but the window for diplomacy may be narrowing.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the location of Macron's remarks. They were made in Paris, not at an EU summit.