The EU-US trade framework, in force since July 2026: what it means for US brands' EU-bound stock
The EU has eliminated tariffs on imports of most US industrial goods under the 2025 EU-US framework, which entered into force on 1 July 2026 — a real change for US brands assessing EU stock.
What changed, and when
In July 2025 the EU and US reached a trade deal, followed by a Joint Statement in August 2025 setting out its terms. After formal approval by the European Parliament and Council of the EU, the framework entered into force on 1 July 2026.
According to the European Commission, the EU has fully implemented its main commitment under that framework: eliminating tariffs on imports of US industrial goods, alongside improved access for certain non-sensitive agri-food products. In return, US tariffs on EU goods have been capped at 15% as a ceiling.
Why this matters for a fulfilment decision
A US brand comparing 'ship every order from the US' against 'hold stock in the EU' has historically had to factor in EU import duty on the inbound stock transfer as a cost of the EU-stock option. For goods that qualify as US industrial goods under the new framework, that specific cost may no longer apply from 1 July 2026 onward.
This does not remove EU import VAT, which is a separate tax applied regardless of any tariff preference, and it does not cover every product category — the framework's language specifically addresses industrial goods, with a narrower, separate set of improvements for certain agri-food products.
What this does not decide
Whether a specific product range — cosmetics, supplements, accessories or another category — is classified as an industrial good under the framework, and what documentation is needed to claim the preference at import, is a customs classification question for the brand or its advisers.
Vareya's role starts when the goods arrive at the warehouse in Breda. Customs clearance support is available for shipments into and out of Europe. Contact Vareya to discuss specific requirements.