European Parliament Backs EU–US Trade Deal

On Thursday, the European Parliament voted to approve legislation implementing an EU–US trade agreement first proposed last July, following months of uncertainty tied to tariffs, the BBC reported (3-26-26).

Lawmakers passed the measure by a 417–154 vote, with 71 abstentions. The legislation includes safeguards to ensure the US complies with the terms of the agreement, addressing concerns raised during negotiations.

The deal would set tariffs at 15% for most EU goods—down from the 30% previously threatened—in exchange for increased European investment in the US and the removal of EU import duties on US industrial goods. A “sunrise clause” stipulates that EU tariff reductions will only take effect if the US meets its commitments, including lowering tariffs to 15% on qualifying EU products containing less than 50% steel and aluminum.

A “sunset clause” would terminate the agreement by March 31, 2028. The legislation now requires approval from all 27 EU member states, with a final vote expected in April or May.