European Union approves trade agreement with United States

All 27 European Union member states ratified the trade pact with the United States, clearing the final legislative hurdle for the deal to take effect before the July 4 deadline set by President Donald Trump. The agreement reduces tariffs on most EU exports to the U.S. to a 15% rate, while granting duty‑free access for U.S. industrial products into the EU market. It also includes a sunset clause that would end the pact in 2029 unless renewed, and provisions allowing the EU Commission to suspend the arrangement if the United States fails to honour its obligations.

The approval follows earlier ratification by the European Parliament and follows negotiations that began in the summer of 2025. The deal is intended to stabilize transatlantic trade and protect European economic interests while offering preferential market access for certain U.S. agricultural and fishery products.