Levi’s hits back at new EU tariffs

The tariffs, which were imposed in response to the US measures against imports of aluminium and steel last week, have led to a raft of charges, from 25% to 50%, being added to a range of clothing and footwear.

In a statement Levi’s said: “As an American business with an international footprint and a complex global supply chain, we support open markets and free trade where everyone plays by the rules.

“Unilateral tariff impositions risk retaliation and destabilizing the global economy, in which case American brands, workers and consumers will ultimately suffer. We will continue to work with our industry partners and stakeholders to make it clear to the US government and the European Commission how these decisions will impact not just our business but consumers and the millions of people across our supply chain.”

Levi’s does not manufacture most of its collection in the US, as operations are spread globally across 35 countries including many in the EU, such as Italy, Portugal and Poland.

The “Made in the USA” garments produced in Texas and California are among the brand’s most premium products.