Nothing defines the EU like its trade policy. To Brussels, trade represents more than just the collective economic strength of its 27 member states. It is – as a European competence – viewed as one of the greatest successes of the European integration process. However, the (re)election of President Trump can also be said to symbolise the simultaneous deterioration of the three pillars underpinning the EU’s traditional approach to trade. Namely, declining global adherence to WTO rules and processes; the transformation of the US into a more transactional trading partner; and falling support for all-encompassing Free Trade Agreements.

Brussels is now facing a US administration where trading certainty has been replaced by a strategy of weaponizing dependencies. Dependencies to be negotiated for broader (and often unrelated) strategic goals. In this context, the EU’s ongoing defence dependence on the US must be balanced against Europe’s significant economic dependence on China and issues ranging trade balances, currency policy, economic security to digital regulation.

How should the EU adapt to these political realities? Does the EU need a new Transatlantic Playbook to help navigate these policy uncertainties? What should Brussels’ priorities be in dealing with the new administration in Washington?

This event will be livestreamed here and on YouTube.