The European Parliament’s International Trade Committee has adopted its position on two legislative proposals implementing key tariff aspects of the EU–US Turnberry trade deal. The measures, approved by a clear majority, aim to eliminate most tariffs on industrial and agricultural goods imported from the United States.
The committee’s position introduces several safeguards to ensure fairness and balance in transatlantic trade. According to rapporteur Bernd Lange, Parliament is seeking to maintain a strong role in overseeing the agreement, insisting that no final decisions will be taken without full clarity on US commitments.
Among the key provisions are strengthened suspension clauses, allowing the EU to halt tariff preferences if the US imposes trade measures linked to foreign policy decisions. A “sunrise clause” has also been included, meaning tariff reductions for US goods will only take effect once agreed commitments are fully respected.
Additional conditions address tariffs on EU products containing steel or aluminium, requiring reductions before the agreement can be implemented. These measures complement broader safeguards already negotiated, including mechanisms on steel and aluminium, standstill provisions, and protections against sudden tariff increases.
The proposals will now move to a plenary vote in the European Parliament, scheduled for 26 March, after which negotiations with EU Member States will begin on the final shape of the legislation.
The developments mark a significant step in advancing the EU–US trade framework agreed in 2025, with the aim of providing greater stability and predictability for businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.