Understanding the EU-US trade deal: Changes and how to prepare
Find out how to prepare your business for EU tariffs on US goods.
Last updated: 1 August 2025
The latest US tariffs on most imports from the European Union is 15% following a trade agreement reached on 27 July 2025 between the EU and the US.
This deal replaced the previously proposed potential 30% tariff by the US that was set to take effect on 1 August 2025.
The 15% tariff applies broadly across EU goods imported into the US. Tariffs on steel imports will remain at 50% until a new separate deal is agreed.
Which US products in your supply chain might face new tariffs?
Businesses should consider the US products that will be impacted and prepare for the potential new customs duties on imports to the EU. Under the Windsor Framework, imported goods subject to EU trade defence measures will be considered to be automatically “At Risk” and any EU tariffs will be payable on import to Northern Ireland.
The situation remains fluid, so it is advisable to regularly review official US government trade announcements and EU Commission updates for the latest details or specific product impacts.
How can the Customs Duty Waiver Scheme help your business?
You may be able to claim a waiver for goods brought into Northern Ireland so that you do not have to pay duty on those goods.
NI companies may be able to offset the cost of any additional tariffs using the Customs Duty Waiver Scheme.
Could the Duty Reimbursement Scheme apply to your imports?
If goods remain within the UK internal market or are exported to a final destination outside the EU, the additional tariffs paid may be eligible for reimbursement under the Northern Ireland Duty Reimbursement Scheme.
In addition to supporting evidence listed to claim under this scheme, to claim back any EU trade defence measures, you will also need to:
- Notify the buyer: You must inform the purchaser that the goods they are receiving are subject to EU trade defence measures.
- Provide evidence of this notification: When you submit your claim to HMRC, you must provide documentation proving you notified the buyer. This could include emails, letters, or other records of the communication.
Check if you can apply for a repayment or remission of EU import duty paid on goods brought into Northern Ireland through the Duty Reimbursement Scheme.