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European Markets Open Lower as U.S. Announces New Import Surcharge, Dampening Sentiment

European equity indexes slipped at the start of trade on Monday after the United States announced a worldwide import surcharge that rose to 15 % over the weekend. The CAC 40 fell 0.23 % to 8,495.79 points, Germany’s DAX dropped 0.64 %, and the FTSE 100 lost 0.11 %. The broader EuroStoxx 50, FTSEurofirst 300 and Stoxx 600 also posted declines, reflecting renewed concerns about a looming trade war. Investors had briefly welcomed the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the “reciprocal” tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump, but the fresh surcharge – initially announced at 10 % and quickly raised to 15 % – has reignited worries about higher import costs and tighter global trade flows.

February 23rd, 2026
1 min read
By boursenews.ma

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European Shares Slip on Monday

Major European stock markets opened lower on Monday as the United States announced a global import surcharge that rose to 15 % over the weekend. The move follows a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the “reciprocal” tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.

  • CAC 40 (France): –0.23 % to 8,495.79 points (08:14 GMT)
  • DAX (Germany): –0.64 %
  • FTSE 100 (UK): –0.11 %
  • EuroStoxx 50: –0.35 %
  • FTSEurofirst 300: –0.28 %
  • Stoxx 600: –0.31 %

The broader European indices mirrored the decline, signalling renewed worries about a potential trade war after the U.S. introduced a new import levy initially set at 10 % and quickly lifted to 15 %.

Market Sentiment Shifts

Investors had briefly celebrated last Friday when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the tariffs that Trump had re‑imposed in April. However, the fresh surcharge has dampened confidence, as higher import costs could pressurise corporate earnings and shrink global trade volumes.

Analysts warn that the escalating tariff environment could lead to increased volatility across equity markets, especially for export‑oriented sectors in Europe.

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