EU adopts tariff commitments under US trade framework

The EU Council on Thursday formally adopted regulations implementing the bloc's tariff commitments under a trade framework with Washington, clearing the final legislative hurdle before the agreement enters into force ahead of a July 4 deadline.

Tariff reductions and market access

Under the approved measures, the EU will eliminate remaining customs duties on US industrial goods and expand preferential access for American seafood and non-sensitive agricultural products. The council said the package also extends duty suspensions on US lobster imports to cover processed lobster.

Safeguards and outstanding disputes

In exchange, Washington has committed to capping tariffs at 15 percent on numerous EU export sectors previously facing higher rates. The European Parliament inserted a sunset clause last week that will terminate the main preferences on Dec. 31, 2029, unless extended, and empowered Brussels to suspend benefits if the US breaches commitments on steel and aluminum derivatives.

The approval came just days before a July 4 deadline set by US President Donald Trump, who had threatened additional tariffs if the bloc delayed ratification. The regulations will be published in the EU's Official Journal and take effect the day after publication, even as differences persist over metals duties and digital regulations.