European Movement Ireland welcomes the new EU-US trade agreement establishing a 15% tariff on transatlantic goods, which averts the proposed 30% tariff and the risk of a damaging trade war. As the US is Ireland’s largest trading partner, this deal brings much-needed clarity for European exporters trading into the US and marks a step toward stabilising the world’s most significant trading relationship. From an Irish perspective, Northern Ireland remains in a unique and complex position as it will now face a 10% tariff as per the UK deal.
However, while this agreement offers a foundation for EU-US cooperation, challenges remain. At a time of global uncertainty, and as we await further detail of this new trading agreement, continued EU-US engagement is essential. In addition, it is important that the EU supports sectors most affected by these changes, just as it did in response to Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. The EU must also help businesses diversify and avail of other EU trade deals and expand into new markets to help strengthen European competitiveness.
At European Movement Ireland, we believe a strong, collaborative EU-US partnership is vital not only for economic prosperity, but also for upholding global stability. We look forward to further progress in this critical relationship for Europe and Ireland.
Noelle O Connell, CEO European Movement Ireland