The European Parliament has given conditional approval to legislation implementing a new EU-US trade agreement, marking a significant step forward after months of uncertainty surrounding US tariff policy.
Lawmakers voted 417 to 154, with 71 abstentions, in favour of the measures, which aim to formalise a framework agreed last July between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US President Donald Trump.
The deal would set tariffs at 15 percent on most EU goods entering the US, down from the previously threatened 30 percent, in exchange for increased European investment in the US and the removal of EU duties on American industrial goods.
However, the approval comes with strict safeguards. Members of the European Parliament introduced provisions allowing the EU to suspend the agreement if the US imposes tariffs above the agreed 15 percent or introduces new duties on EU exports. Additional clauses would halt the deal if the US threatens EU territorial sovereignty.
A "sunrise clause" ensures that EU tariff reductions will only take effect once the US fulfils its commitments. "At this stage, we have received reassurances from the US that they intend to honour the deal," European economy commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis said after the vote. "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 vote follows delays caused by escalating transatlantic tensions, including tariff disputes and broader geopolitical concerns. It also comes after a US Supreme Court ruling that cast doubt on the legality of certain tariff measures.
The agreement still requires approval from all 27 EU member states, with a final decision expected in the coming months.
As the EU and US move toward implementation, the deal reflects both ongoing cooperation and underlying caution, as both sides seek to balance economic opportunity with protection against future trade volatility.