Signal EU Gives Final Approval to Implement U.S. Trade Agreement / EU Industrial Accelerator Act

Summary

The European Parliament gave final approval to the EU-US trade agreement legislation, adopting the main regulation by 440 votes to 151 with 50 abstentions, eliminating tariffs on all US industrial goods and granting preferential treatment to a range of American seafood and agricultural products. A second measure, approved 444 to 152 with 54 abstentions, extends tariff-free imports of US lobster and expands preferential access. The rules let the European Commission suspend tariff preferences if the US keeps steel and aluminium derivative tariffs above 15% after 31 December 2026, and establish a safeguard mechanism to counter import surges harming EU industry or agriculture. The framework entered into force on 1 July 2026, with the EU eliminating tariffs on US industrial goods and improving market access for select agri-food products including lobster. Commission President von der Leyen called it a milestone toward removing tariffs on US industrial imports. The US 15% ceiling on most EU imports is described as a clear cap with no stacking, and MFN tariffs already at or above 15% will not face additional duties.