Mon Feb 23 16:13:03 UTC 2026: ### EU Parliament Postpones Vote on US Trade Deal Amid Trump’s New Tariffs

The Story:
The European Parliament has delayed a vote for the second time on a proposed trade agreement with the United States following U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of a new 15% import tariff on EU goods. The EU Assembly was debating proposals to eliminate many EU import duties on U.S. products, a central component of the deal reached in Turnberry, Scotland, in July 2025, and to maintain zero duties on U.S. lobsters, originally agreed upon in 2020. The postponement reflects growing uncertainty and concern among EU lawmakers regarding the stability and fairness of the trade relationship with the U.S.

Key Points:

  • The European Parliament postponed a vote on the EU-U.S. trade deal for the second time.
  • The postponement is in response to President Trump’s new blanket 15% import tariff.
  • The trade deal includes removing EU import duties on many U.S. goods.
  • The deal also continues zero duties for U.S. lobsters, initially agreed in 2020.
  • The new U.S. tariff could increase levies for some EU exports.
  • Lawmakers will reconvene on March 4, 2026, to reassess the situation.
  • The trade deal sets a 15% U.S. tariff for most EU goods, except those with sectoral tariffs, and zero tariffs on some products like aircraft and spare parts.
  • For some products, like certain cheeses, the new tariff could bring the overall tariff to about 30%.

Key Takeaways:

  • Uncertainty in Trade Relations: The postponement highlights the volatile nature of international trade relations under the Trump administration, marked by unpredictable tariff impositions.
  • EU Hesitation: The EU’s reluctance to proceed with the trade deal reflects a loss of confidence in the U.S.’s commitment to the agreed-upon terms.
  • Potential for Increased Tariffs: The new tariffs could significantly increase the cost of EU exports to the U.S., potentially harming European businesses.
  • Re-evaluation Needed: The EU Parliament will need to reassess the trade deal and determine if it is still beneficial under the new tariff regime.

Impact Analysis:

  • Economic Disruptions: The trade tensions could lead to economic disruptions for both the EU and the U.S., as businesses adjust to the new tariff landscape.
  • Damaged Alliances: The imposition of new tariffs could strain the transatlantic alliance, potentially impacting cooperation on other global issues.
  • Future Trade Negotiations: This event could set a precedent for future trade negotiations, with countries potentially being more cautious and demanding stronger guarantees.
  • Global Trade Landscape: Increased trade barriers between major economies could contribute to a slowdown in global trade and economic growth.

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