The EU-US trade pact is nearing a significant final step. In mid-June, the European Parliament is scheduled to vote on the necessary legislation. The trade committee has already approved it. This essentially clears the way for the plenary vote.
For the EU, the objective is to avoid higher US tariffs. The USA has set a deadline of July 4 for the EU. If the EU fails to implement its commitments, new or higher tariffs on European goods could be imposed.
The deal stems from an agreement made in July 2025. The EU is expected to reduce or eliminate import tariffs on many US industrial products. In return, the USA is to maintain a tariff rate of 15 percent on most EU goods.
However, the situation is not completely calm. The USA is simultaneously examining new tariffs due to alleged insufficient measures against forced labor in supply chains. EU representatives reject these accusations and clearly state that additional US tariffs would be unacceptable.
For shippers and freight forwarders, this issue is vital, as it directly impacts calculations, customs costs, and supply chains. Those moving goods between the EU and the USA require planning certainty. That is precisely why this vote is so relevant.
In short: The trade pact is not yet finalized, but it is close. If the European Parliament approves it, an important step will have been taken to avoid a new escalation of tariffs between the EU and the USA.