The Spanish government is bracing for the potential repercussions of trade tensions stemming from U.S. tariffs, specifically those threatened by the Trump administration against the European Union, citing a favorable trade balance for Brussels.

Concerns have escalated within the Spanish government, particularly in sectors vulnerable to tariffs, such as agriculture, automotive, and wine, in which Spain holds a significant global position.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has directed a response plan that includes assistance for primary sector industries, the automotive sector, and metallurgy.

Government sources emphasize the need for caution, noting that specific measures will be clarified only after understanding the full extent of Trump’s decisions.

'It is essential to identify the affected sectors, such as aluminum, steel, olive oil production, and wine.

We will enact similar measures to those implemented during the pandemic.

The government is committed to supporting affected sectors and their workers,' stated Yolanda Díaz, Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Labor, during an interview on RNE.

Sánchez is expected to address the public on Thursday, projecting an image of calm and confidence following meetings with various industry representatives.

'If these tariffs are imposed, we will respond decisively and defend our interests.

We will act swiftly, proportionally, and with unity,' he warned on Monday.

The administration's silence has been strategic, awaiting Trump's announcements, with indications from government officials suggesting they anticipate a European response shortly thereafter.

That afternoon, the Prime Minister hosted a meeting that included union leaders and employers’ representatives, illustrating the gravity of concerns regarding potential U.S. tariffs.

Sánchez convened the heads of CEOE and Cepyme, Antonio Garamendi and Gerardo Cuerva, alongside the general secretaries of CC OO and UGT, Unai Sordo and Pepe Álvarez, to discuss the current geopolitical landscape at La Moncloa.

Attendees also included Yolanda Díaz and ministers from various other portfolios, addressing possible tariff measures from the U.S. and potential responses at both the European and national levels.

The discussions reinforced the need for a strong and united European Union to protect industries, workers, and businesses.

As the situation develops, with impending announcements from the U.S. referred to as the 'Liberation Day,' the Spanish government has emphasized its resolve and determination.

'From both the European Union and Spain, we have expressed our desire for a negotiated solution with the United States, as tariffs ultimately harm all parties.

If the U.S. imposes tariffs, these would be unjust and unjustified, and the EU possesses the necessary tools to respond.

We will react in a fair and proportional manner,' noted the Minister of Economy on Wednesday.

The EU's commitment to multilateral negotiations is a hallmark of its policies, as stated by Carlos Cuerpo, who called for calm and warned against speculation regarding responses to U.S. trade actions.

'Let us wait to see what is announced.

From there, we can assess the situation, but as the Prime Minister has already indicated, Spain will support affected sectors from day one,' he remarked.

The government has already begun consultations with sectors such as steel, aluminum, automotive, and beverages—industries that Sánchez intends to meet on Thursday.

'This is how we will continue our approach: maintaining direct and continuous contact, standing with our businesses and workforce,' asserted Cuerpo.

Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo of the PP has expressed strong criticism regarding the trade conflict, labeling it as one of the 'most foolish in history,' and has urged Sánchez to coordinate with regional presidents to establish a 'contingency plan' in response to Trump's tariffs.

'If the U.S. administration dismantles the free trade agreement and enacts tariffs, a proportional response is essential.

This is an absolutely misguided decision,' Feijóo asserted in an interview.

Amid the impending wave of tariffs from Washington, the opposition leader has called for collaboration among regional leaders, noting that the PP governs in 11 autonomous communities as well as Ceuta and Melilla.

He also emphasized his party's 'independence' from Vox's stance, which has generally aligned with Trump despite the implications for European and Spanish interests.