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AmCham EU is relieved to see the European Parliament and Member States reach an agreement on the tariff reduction proposals linked to the EU-US Framework Agreement. The co-legislators’ compromise is a critical step for businesses that rely on a stable transatlantic trade and investment relationship. 

The EU‑US commercial relationship is the largest in the world. It supports millions of European and American jobs and underpins deeply integrated value chains on both sides of the Atlantic. While AmCham EU opposes broad-based tariffs, given political priorities on both sides of the Atlantic, the EU-US Framework Agreement still provides the most realistic path to a workable and more constructive transatlantic trade and investment environment that helps businesses plan and grow in an increasingly volatile global context. The trilogue agreement is a sign that the EU is honouring its commitments under the deal.  

Member States and the European Parliament must now formally confirm this outcome at the earliest possible opportunity. Completing this process will allow the EU and the US to move beyond tariffs and advance the broader cooperation set out in the Joint Statement, including on critical supply chains, non‑market practices and economic security. 

Authored by Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU

The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU (AmCham EU) is deeply concerned by World Trade Organization members’ failure to reach agreement on the moratorium on E-Commerce at the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Cameroon. The absence of an agreement undermines legal certainty for businesses and consumers worldwide. This deadlock further underscores the need for significant WTO reform.

Since its introduction, the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions has played a vital role in enabling the global digital economy by ensuring the smooth cross-border exchange of digital goods and services. In an increasingly digitalised global economy, predictability remains essential for companies of all sizes operating across borders.

WTO members must now renew efforts to re-instate the moratorium at the next General Council meeting as a matter of priority. Delivering such an outcome would strengthen the multilateral trading system and better reflect the realities of modern trade.