BRUSSELS — The European Parliament approved legislation to implement a tariff agreement with the United States on Tuesday, advancing a deal struck last year with President Donald Trump that caps U.S. tariffs on most EU goods at 15 percent in exchange for the removal of EU duties on many American exports.
Lawmakers voted 440 in favor, 151 against and 50 abstaining to enact the agreement reached in July 2025 at Trump’s Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, according to parliamentary records. The move comes days before a U.S. deadline and aims to stabilize transatlantic trade relations.
Under the terms, the EU will eliminate tariffs on most U.S. industrial goods, including machinery and car parts, and provide zero duties on certain agricultural products such as lobster and seafood. In return, the United States will apply a 15 percent tariff ceiling on the majority of EU exports. The deal includes safeguards, such as a sunset clause and suspension rights if tariff limits are breached, EU officials said.
The agreement was negotiated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the Trump administration. It has faced delays amid concerns over additional U.S. tariff threats and other disputes. EU member states had already endorsed the core terms, making parliamentary approval the final major political hurdle before formal adoption, expected later this week.
Trade between the EU and U.S. forms one of the world’s largest economic relationships. Officials from both sides have described the pact as a step toward greater predictability for businesses, though some EU lawmakers criticized it as overly concessional.
“Today’s vote ensures stability for European companies and workers by securing the implementation of this important agreement,” said a senior EU trade official after the session. Details on the precise economic impact remain subject to ongoing monitoring.
The approval follows months of negotiations between the European Parliament, EU governments and the Commission. Some left-leaning and liberal groups opposed the deal, citing concerns over concessions to the U.S. administration, while center-right and other major factions supported it to avoid escalation.
Implementation of the U.S. side of the agreement has already occurred. The European Parliament’s decision puts the bloc on track to meet Trump’s July 4 deadline and avert threatened increases in tariffs on European vehicles and other goods.
As of Tuesday evening, the legislation was expected to proceed to final formal steps by EU leaders in the coming days.
