A new tariff agreement between the European Union and the United States is set to bring greater clarity and predictability to transatlantic trade, according to the European Commission. The deal, which includes a 15% tariff on most goods exchanged between the two major economies, is intended to stabilise trade relations following months of uncertainty.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, European Commission Spokesperson on Trade, Olof Gill, acknowledged that the tariff rate was not the preferred outcome for either side, but said it provides much-needed stability for businesses.
“What we have now is something that gives us clarity and predictability — which is what businesses want above all,” Gill said. He noted that the tariff would take effect “fairly soon,” although a precise implementation date has yet to be confirmed.
Gill added that discussions are ongoing to address specific issues, including differing tariff applications for goods moving between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. “We’re not at the end of the process — we’re at the start,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, is expected to brief the Cabinet on the trade agreement, including several carve-outs Ireland secured during negotiations. These include a “zero-for-zero” exemption for aviation, meaning aircraft-related goods will not be subject to tariffs.
To support companies facing new trade challenges, the government has introduced a new market research grant of up to €35,000 through Enterprise Ireland. This will help businesses assess the impact of tariffs on their pricing, supply chains, and competitiveness, and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris, will convene a meeting of the Government’s Trade Forum on Friday to further examine the implications of the deal. The forum includes representatives from state agencies, business groups, trade unions, and senior ministers.
“As we continue to analyse the full implications of the deal, the Trade Forum meeting will be a timely opportunity to share and gain insights into what this agreement means for Irish businesses, jobs, and the economy,” Harris said.
He also noted that despite the overall positive tone of the agreement, the imposition of tariffs necessitates a renewed focus on diversifying export markets and strengthening Ireland’s global trade resilience.
The Tánaiste will also provide updates on other key trade issues, including the fast-tracking of the Arbitration (Amendment) Bill 2025 to allow ratification of the EU-Canada trade deal (CETA), and the government’s decision to delay implementation of new alcohol labelling rules following competitiveness concerns raised during earlier trade forum discussions.
