Trump, EU Agree on Outline of Trade Deal with 15% Tariffs

President Donald Trump shakes hands with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Scotland on Sunday. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images)

By USA NEWS TODAY , 28 July 2025

In a major step toward resolving transatlantic trade tensions, President Donald Trump announced a preliminary agreement with the European Union that would impose a 15% tariff on a range of imports—including automobiles and wine. The deal follows months of intense negotiations between U.S. and EU officials.

The tariff level marks a significant reduction from the 30% duties Trump had previously threatened, signaling a potential compromise between the two economic powers. While the full details of the agreement have yet to be released, insiders suggest it could reshape trade flows across key industries on both sides of the Atlantic.

The announcement was made during a meeting in Scotland, where Trump met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The handshake between the two leaders symbolized a breakthrough in what had been a tense standoff over trade imbalances and regulatory differences.

Despite the move being presented as a win by the administration, the public response has been mixed. Critics argue that tariffs ultimately act as hidden taxes on consumers, raising prices for imported goods and potentially fueling inflation. Many consumers and analysts worry that such measures, while intended to protect domestic industries, could backfire by limiting access to competitive foreign products.

As negotiations continue and details emerge, global markets and policy experts will be watching closely to see how this agreement unfolds—and whether it sets the stage for further cooperation or future conflict.