Macron urges EU to consider trade ‘bazooka’ in response to US tariffs threat

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By by SAM McNEILJanuary 21, 2026 at 01:23 PM

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In response to potential tariffs from the United States, the European Union is considering countermeasures, including the Anti-Coercion Instrument, or "trade bazooka," championed by French President Emmanuel Macron. This instrument, established in 2021, allows the EU to restrict trade and investment from countries putting undue pressure on member states. Measures could include curtailing exports and imports, limiting access to public tenders, and restricting foreign investment. While some EU nations are hesitant, activating the ACI could inflict billions of dollars in losses on the U.S. economy. Trade between the EU and the U.S. amounted to 1.7 trillion euros in 2024, with major European exports including pharmaceuticals and cars, and U.S. exports including professional services and oil and gas. Activating the ACI would take at least six months.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

France 30% Eurostat 40% Taiwan 40% Lithuania 40% China 50% European Commission ×260% Emmanuel Macron 70% Donald Trump 80% United States ×480% European Union ×790%

Keywords

trade bazooka 100% eu 90% us tariffs 80% trade war 70% anti-coercion instrument 70% trade countermeasures 60% eu-us trade 50% emmanuel macron 50% international trade 50%