The EU-US trade deal took a decisive step forward as the European Parliament approved plans to reduce tariffs on American goods while imposing strict conditions to ensure Washington’s compliance. The vote clears the path for further discussions with EU member states on the final structure of the agreement.
Lawmakers endorsed two legislative proposals that would remove most tariffs on US industrial products and expand access for American agricultural and seafood exports. These measures stem from the agreement reached in Turnberry, Scotland, in 2025, during meetings between US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The proposals passed with significant support. One measure received 417 votes in favour, 154 against, and 71 abstentions. The second measure gained 437 votes in favour, 144 against, and 60 abstentions.
The European Parliament attached strict safeguards to the tariff reductions. A suspension clause gives the EU the power to halt trade benefits if the US imposes new tariffs or exceeds the agreed 15 per cent ceiling on EU goods. The clause also applies if the US takes actions perceived as threatening EU economic interests.
A sunrise clause ties EU tariff cuts to full compliance by the United States. Under this provision, reductions on EU tariffs will only take effect once the US lowers its own duties in line with the agreement, including on products containing steel and aluminium.
A sunset clause sets 31 March 2028 as the expiry date for the measures, meaning any extension would require new legislation and a full review of the effects on European industry.
The European Commission will monitor US imports and can activate safeguards if rising imports threaten EU producers. A threshold has been established, triggering action if imports in any product category rise by 10 per cent.
Bernd Lange, chair of the Parliament’s trade committee, emphasized the careful conditions set by lawmakers. “MEPs will only be able to agree to the trade terms of the deal if the regulation contains very strong and clear safeguards, and only after the US has fully respected the terms of the deal,” Lange said.
The vote follows months of delays linked to US tariff policies. Lawmakers postponed previous votes due to announcements by the Trump administration and tensions surrounding Greenland.
The agreement places a 15 per cent ceiling on most tariffs for EU exports to the US. An interim 10 per cent tariff remains in effect, with EU negotiators ensuring that any tariff relief for US goods is conditional on full adherence to these limits.
The legislation is divided into two sections. The first addresses tariff reductions and market access for US products. The second extends a zero-tariff regime for certain imports, including selected seafood products.
The Parliament also included a provision allowing suspension of the deal if the US takes actions that threaten EU sovereignty or policy interests, a measure shaped by earlier tensions following statements by President Trump about Greenland.
This EU-US trade deal reflects a careful balance between opening markets and safeguarding European industries, ensuring that progress in transatlantic trade does not compromise the EU’s economic or political interests.
