EU negotiator says 'some way to go' on US trade deal

Negotiations between the European Union and the United States to finalize a trade deal eliminating import duties are progressing, but a swift resolution remains uncertain, according to Bernd Lange, the European Parliament's chief negotiator. Lange indicated that while a recent constructive trilogue meeting yielded progress on safeguard mechanisms and regulatory reviews, significant hurdles persist, particularly concerning the conditions under which the deal could be suspended or modified.

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We have just concluded a constructive second trilogue during which we made good progress on the issue of the safeguard mechanism and the review and evaluation of the main regulation, but there is still some way to go.

The urgency for an agreement has been amplified by recent threats from US President Donald Trump to raise tariffs on European cars and trucks. This move has galvanized many EU member states, who are keen to avert such a punitive measure and push for the swift implementation of the trade accord. However, nine months after the initial agreement was struck, the European Parliament and the European Council are yet to reach a consensus on a common text, a prerequisite for duty reductions to take effect.

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our people are the driving force behind everything we achieve. By treating one another with respect and working collaboratively, we not only enhance productivity but also create a safer and more resilient workplace

From an EU perspective, as reported by RTÉ News, the current impasse highlights a fundamental divergence in how safeguards are viewed. The EU desires robust conditions, including the ability to suspend the deal if the US fails to comply and to make tariff cuts conditional on reciprocal US actions. Conversely, some EU governments have shown reluctance to incorporate such stringent items, indicating a division within the bloc itself. The ongoing talks, with the next round scheduled for May 19, underscore the complex geopolitical and economic balancing act at play, particularly as the US administration employs aggressive trade tactics.

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Our people are the driving force behind everything we achieve. By treating one another with respect and working collaboratively, we not only enhance productivity but also create a safer and more resilient workplace