Washington Says Tariffs Now Part of Geopolitical Strategy; U.S. Trade Chief Tells Euronews
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada 21/1/2026
The United States now considers tariffs a valid geopolitical instrument, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told Euronews during the World Economic Forum in Davos. His comments signal a notable shift in how Washington views trade policy, placing tariffs alongside tools like export controls and sanctions in advancing national interests.
Greer said that while President Donald Trump generally prefers diplomatic solutions, tariffs are used as a “lesser measure” when necessary to achieve broader strategic goals. He explained that tariffs are part of a spectrum of economic tools the U.S. may deploy even against close allies if negotiations reach an impasse.
When asked how the U.S. responds if the other side refuses to negotiate, Greer said that discussions simply halt and each country returns to its position, underscoring that tariffs can serve as leverage when talks break down.
Greer also warned the European Union against activating its so-called anti-coercion instrument, an emergency mechanism that could restrict U.S. firms’ access to European markets. He described such retaliation as “unwise” and cautioned that any countermeasures by Brussels would draw a response from Washington, potentially escalating tensions.
The comments come amid a growing dispute over Greenland. President Trump recently threatened to impose 10 % tariffs on imports from eight European nations starting February 1 rising to 25 % in June unless the U.S. gains full control of Greenland, a move European leader have firmly rejected.
Greer asserted that U.S. law allows tariffs targeted at specific EU states despite the bloc’s single market, citing past conflicts such as disagreements over France’s digital tax and European subsidies to Airbus.
He also criticized European regulatory practices, claiming they have long placed barriers that disadvantage American products, particularly in industrial and agricultural sectors. Greer insisted U.S. standards for goods like cars and food are as safe and effective as European ones, even if EU regulators do not always recognize them as such.
Looking ahead, the U.S. trade representative said the era of perpetual market openness is ending. Washington will periodically review its trade relationships, suggesting that foreign companies should expect some uncertainty unless they invest in U.S. production
