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Business associations have expressed full support for the European Commission’s decision to provisionally apply the EU–Mercosur Interim Trade Agreement. The move marks a decisive step towards implementation after more than 25 years of negotiations. The economic case is compelling. The European Commission estimates indicate that, once fully implemented, the Agreement could increase EU exports to Mercosur by nearly 40%, generating €48.7 billion in additional annual exports and €77.6 billion in annual EU GDP gains by 2040. At the same time, prolonged delays have carried significant costs for European competitiveness. Swift operationalisation of the Agreement will enhance market access, diversify trade relationships and reinforce the EU’s leadership in sustainable, rules-based trade.

The US Supreme Court has ruled today to halt tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). In response, the US Administration has indicated it will shortly enact a new 10% global tariff and initiate new tariff investigations under alternative instruments.

The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU (AmCham EU) continues to oppose broad-based tariffs as they disrupt supply chains and increase costs for businesses and consumers. We echo the US Chamber of Commerce’s call for the US Administration to use this ruling as an opportunity to reset its overall tariff policy.

There is now significant uncertainty for businesses that depend on a stable and predictable trade policy environment. Further guidance from authorities is required for companies to understand how the latest developments will impact their operations.

The EU-US trade and investment relationship is the most important economic partnership in the world. AmCham EU looks to the EU and the US to continue working closely together in support of their shared growth and security.

On Tuesday, 17 February, AmCham EU met with Caleb Orr, US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs, to exchange views on transatlantic economic priorities. Malte Lohan, CEO, opened the discussion by highlighting the importance of a strong and predictable business environment for US companies operating in the EU. The exchange focused on regulatory and investment conditions affecting international business, as well as the broader EU-US trade relationship and the value of continued economic cooperation. Participants also discussed cooperation on critical mineral supply chains, underlining the importance of coordinated transatlantic efforts to strengthen economic security, resilience and competitiveness.