The European economy needs to pump up its zeal. For a while, it cannot withstand the rivalry with the US. According to Stéphane Séjourné, Vice President of the European Commission, the EU will have to adopt an assertive strategy in its dealings with US President-elect Donald Trump.

To shield itself from the consequences of a looming trade war—an ominous threat hovering over the EU due to the Republican's rhetoric. Thus, Brussels must take preventive measures. The most suitable approach is a "Europe First" strategy, Séjourné asserts.

The policymaker warns that if Trump enacts the promised tariffs, the EU's competitiveness will plummet. In such a scenario, the "Europe First" strategy would protect key segments of the EU's business sector from the fallout of a global trade conflict. At this moment, it is best for Brussels to go on the defensive, advancing its business interests and preventing the eurozone markets from being flooded with Chinese imports, Séjourné added.

He also expressed serious concern that Europe could become a victim of a global trade war in the near future. Previously, some politicians and economists called for strengthening the European economy's position and achieving greater autonomy in light of the impending trade confrontation with the US.