EU and US Near Agreement on 15% Trade Tariff Baseline

Representatives from the EU and US are on the brink of finalizing a trade agreement that establishes a 15% baseline tariff on European imports. This move aims to prevent threatened tariff increases.

The negotiation outcome carries substantial implications for international trade and economic relations between the EU and US, impacting various sectors and potentially stabilizing future trade transactions.

15% Tariff Agreement to Impact Trade Relations

Negotiations between the EU and US have progressed towards a potential agreement setting a 15% tariff baseline on European imports. Sources note this deal incorporates existing tariffs and aims to stabilize trade relations. This decision follows similar agreements recently endorsed by US counterparts.

If approved, this agreement would see a reduction in the current 27.5% auto tariff to 15%, impacting major industries. Additionally, exemptions for aircraft, spirits, and medical equipment would remain, potentially minimizing economic disruptions in these sectors.

Market observers are closely monitoring these talks, with potential EU plans to impose a €93 billion retaliatory tariff package if no deal is struck by August 1. Olof Gill, Trade Spokesperson, European Commission, stated, “To make our countermeasures clearer, simpler, and stronger, we will merge lists 1 & 2 into a single list.” (via official EU Commission press room, July 23, 2025).

Crypto Markets Brace for Potential Spike in Stablecoin Use

Did you know? In 2018–2019, similar US–EU trade tensions led to retaliatory tariffs affecting consumer goods, which coincided with increased volatility in crypto markets, specifically affecting DeFi volumes and stablecoin trades.

According to CoinMarketCap, Ethereum (ETH) currently trades at $3,601.04, with a market cap of $434.69 billion and a 24-hour trading volume of $39.88 billion, experiencing a 2.94% decline over the last day. Over 90 days, its price has seen a 104.30% increase.

Coincu’s research team suggests that technological shifts within the crypto sector could better prepare markets for fluctuating trade agreements like this pending EU–US tariff negotiation. Historical data shows that such geopolitical events can spur increased hedge positions in stablecoins and decentralized finance protocols. The upcoming Federal Register Notice for 2025-12462 also covers relevant trade updates.