Dublin: Ireland has welcomed a new US-EU trade agreement that sets a 15% cap on tariffs for key industries, including pharmaceuticals, cars, semiconductors, and lumber, according to a joint statement issued by both sides.
The deal, signed last month at Turnberry Golf Course in Scotland by US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, resolves months of uncertainty after repeated threats from Washington to raise tariffs as high as 250%.
Pharmaceuticals—one of Ireland’s most profitable sectors—were initially speculated to face higher duties, sparking concern in Dublin and Brussels. The new agreement eliminates that risk, though some sectors, such as med-tech products and spirits, remain subject to the 15% tariff. In contrast, aircraft and aircraft parts will continue to benefit from zero-to-zero tariffs.
European Commission President von der Leyen defended the agreement, saying it would deliver “substantial benefits to consumers and businesses” across the bloc.
In Ireland, the deal has been warmly received. Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris both welcomed the accord, with Martin noting that it would provide “greater stability and certainty” for Irish exporters. However, he stressed that further negotiations are needed to address tariff concerns in certain product categories.
Meanwhile, the White House has also launched a Section 232 investigation under the US Trade Expansion Act, examining whether specific imports pose a threat to national security. While this move has created new uncertainties, officials on both sides hope the latest agreement will reduce trade tensions and safeguard vital industries.
Irish Samachar English News