The European Parliament on Thursday advanced legislation to implement the European Union’s side of a trade agreement with the United States, adding safeguards to address ongoing concerns about U.S. tariff commitments.
The EU assembly approved the measure with 417 votes in favor, 154 against, and 71 abstentions. Lawmakers debated provisions to remove EU import duties on U.S. industrial goods, improve market access for American agricultural products, and maintain zero tariffs on U.S. lobsters—a concession first agreed under former President Donald Trump in 2020.
While the vote marks progress, it is not the final step. Parliament and EU governments must now negotiate the detailed text before a final approval vote, expected in April or May. The added safeguards reflect skepticism that Washington may adhere fully to the commitments made in Turnberry, Scotland, last July.
The legislation represents a key stage in strengthening transatlantic trade ties while balancing protections for European industries in the face of ongoing U.S. tariff uncertainties.
