EU Parliament Moves Forward with EU-U.S. Trade Deal

Members of the European Parliament have adopted two legislative proposals aimed at implementing the tariff elements of the EU–U.S. trade deal, marking a decisive step toward reshaping transatlantic trade relations after months of political uncertainty and delays.

A majority of lawmakers voted in favour of the measures on Thursday, approving the proposals by 417 votes to 154, with 71 abstentions. The vote gives MEPs a mandate to begin negotiations with EU member states on the final form of the legislation.

The European Parliament’s decision process had been repeatedly paused, including when Trump threatened to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, and when a U.S. Supreme Court ruling found some of his tariffs unlawful, raising uncertainty over the administration’s next steps. 

The legislation would formalize key aspects of the controversial deal struck in July 2025 between Donald Trump and Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. Critics argue Brussels has given up too much to come to an agreement with Washington, while the U.S. reaps the benefits. The deal will set tariffs at 15% for most EU goods, while eliminating EU import duties on U.S. industrial goods and granting preferential access to American seafood and agricultural products. 

In parallel, the agreement includes commitments to increase European investments in the United States by $600bn, including purchases of American military equipment, and spend $750bn on energy. Von der Leyen has argued that increased purchases of American liquefied natural gas, oil and nuclear fuels would help reduce Europe’s reliance on Russian energy, although for a higher price.

Rapporteur Bernd Lange, who led Parliament’s work on the file, underlined the importance of protections and clauses in the deal, since European lawmakers are worried that Washington might not hold up their end of the bargain.

 “With today’s vote, we have a strong mandate for negotiations with the Council and we intend to make the most of it. MEPs will only be able to sign up to the trade terms of the deal if the regulation contains very strong and clear safeguards, and only after the U.S. has fully respected the terms of the deal. I intend to defend this mandate firmly in the negotiations,” said Lange.

European officials acknowledged both the progress made and the remaining risks. Valdis Dombrovskis said after the vote: “At this stage, we have received reassurances from the U.S. that they intend to honour the deal. While we will continue our efforts to maintain constructive relationships and avoid volatility, we will not turn a blind eye to any risks to our interests.”

The additional safeguards have been widely interpreted as an attempt by lawmakers to “Trump-proof” the agreement, even as some observers suggest that parts of these provisions could be diluted in negotiations with member states and the U.S.

The legislation will now move to negotiations with EU governments and the European Commission, before requiring approval from all 27 member states. A final sign-off is expected in April or May.