Stinging US tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods came into effect as a deadline to avert president Donald Trump’s levies passed without the nations striking a deal.

“These tariffs threaten deeply integrated supply chains, investment flows, and economic stability across the Atlantic,” European Commission spokesman Olof Gill said in a statement.

He noted that Mexico and Canada are the EU’s economic partners through two separate agreements.

In January, the EU announced that it would strengthen its trade relations with Mexico, an upgrade that had been eight years in the making.

“The EU stands firmly against protectionist measures that undermine open and fair trade.

“We call on the US to reconsider its approach and work towards a cooperative, rules-based solution that benefits all parties,” he added.

The EU itself faces Trump’s extra levies.

His 25% tariffs on US steel and aluminium imports will take effect from March 12, affecting European industries.

Brussels has vowed to retaliate with firm and proportionate countermeasures.

Trump has also signed plans for sweeping “reciprocal tariffs” that could hit both allies and adversaries.