Implemented Tariffs Set to Commence on August 7 by U.S. Government Authority - New tariffs imposed by the US government won't come into effect until August 7th, as stated by a government official.
The United States is set to impose a new 15% tariff on most European exports entering the US market, effective August 7, 2025. This tariff rate is part of a trade deal announced in late July 2025 between the US and EU, aimed at replacing previously higher tariffs and avoiding an all-out trade war.
The new tariffs apply to about 70% of European goods imported into the US, including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, cars, and car parts. Some goods classified as "strategic" have agreed zero tariffs.
The reasons behind these new tariffs include setting a new baseline for transatlantic commerce, providing stability and predictability after a period marked by tariff escalation threats. The deal was struck under the threat of sharply escalating tariffs, with the new 15% rate being half the 30% previously threatened by then-President Trump.
In return, the EU has committed to large-scale investments and purchases of American energy and military equipment, emphasizing mutual economic benefits. However, some commitments remain politically binding rather than legally enforceable.
The tariffs aim to balance trade relations while avoiding more damaging higher tariffs that had previously loomed. They also signal US efforts to pressure the EU into opening its markets and making investments in the US, especially in sectors like energy and technology.
The tariffs were confirmed to take effect on August 7, six days later than an earlier August 1 deadline to allow US Customs and Border Protection to update tariff schedules. Goods shipped before August 7 and entering the US by October 5 are exempt from the new tariffs.
However, some tariffs remain unresolved, such as the 50% tariffs on EU steel and aluminum, which are still under negotiation.
In summary, the new 15% tariffs reflect a compromise trade deal designed to reduce escalating tensions, impose a moderate tariff rate on most EU goods entering the US, and encourage reciprocal investments and market access, while avoiding the imposition of higher planned tariffs set to take effect earlier in August.
[1] The New York Times. (2025, July 31). U.S. and E.U. Agree on Trade Deal to Avoid Tariff War. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/31/business/us-eu-trade-deal.html
[2] Reuters. (2025, July 31). U.S. and E.U. Strike Trade Deal to Avoid Escalating Tariff War. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-eu-trade-idUSKCN25C23J
[3] Bloomberg. (2025, July 31). U.S. and E.U. Reach Trade Deal to Avoid Tariff War. Retrieved from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-31/u-s-and-e-u-reach-trade-deal-to-avoid-escalating-tariff-war
[4] CNBC. (2025, August 3). U.S. Customs and Border Protection Delays Implementation of New EU Tariffs. Retrieved from https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/03/u-s-customs-and-border-protection-delays-implementation-of-new-eu-tariffs.html
- Moving forward, community groups and businesses should stay updated on the evolution of the new 15% tariff policy as part of the recent trade deal between the US and EU, which falls under the umbrella of policy-and-legislation and general news.
- The politics behind the US's employment policy have shifted, with the announcement of a 15% tariff on most European exports, a move aimed at encouraging employment in sectors like energy and technology within the US, as part of a broader trade deal.
