US tariffs: EPP Group delivers certainty, others risked renewed trade war

The European Parliament today gave its final approval to the EU-US Framework Agreement on Trade, known as the 'Turnberry deal', clearing the way for implementation. Backed by the EPP Group, the agreement brings much-needed certainty to European businesses and workers and prevents a damaging trade escalation with the United States.

"This decision is about choosing stability and certainty for businesses and citizens, rather than prolonging doubt and escalating trade tensions. It delivers the confidence our industries need at a time of economic and geopolitical pressure," said Željana Zovko MEP, the EPP Group member responsible for US trade relations.

With today’s vote, the EPP Group helped secure a framework that stabilises the €1.6 trillion transatlantic trade relationship and responds to a long-standing demand from European industry for clarity.

"Despite its shortcomings, this remains the most viable outcome for European businesses and the preferable basis for transatlantic trade. It is about securing steadiness for companies and workers, not prolonging uncertainty through delay," said Jörgen Warborn MEP, the EPP Group’s spokesman on international trade.

Under the agreement, the United States has six months in which to reduce tariffs on steel and aluminium from 50% to 15%. If it fails to do so, the Commission will consider imposing countermeasures.

The EPP Group considers today’s vote a decisive step towards a more predictable, stable and rules-based transatlantic trading relationship.