EU Pharmaceutical Exports Face Potential 15% Tariffs from US
Pharmaceutical exports from the EU to the US could be subject to 15% tariffs starting Friday, according to an announcement from the White House.
The decision is based on a trade agreement finalized during discussions at Donald Trump’s golf course on Sunday, which set the base tariff rate for pharmaceuticals. However, the move has caused further confusion, coming less than a day after EU officials were informed that such tariffs would not be imposed until the conclusion of US national security reviews on pharmaceutical and semiconductor imports.
As part of efforts to address trade imbalances, the EU will apply a 15% tariff on exports to the US, covering automobiles, auto parts, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors. Earlier this month, Trump had indicated plans to gradually introduce these tariffs.
Additionally, the agreement clarifies that the EU has committed not to implement any digital service taxes. The text states:
“The US and the EU plan to address unfair barriers in digital trade. In this regard, the EU confirms it will not impose network usage fees. Both sides also agree to maintain zero tariffs on digital transmissions.”
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EU Weights Partial Suspension of Israel from Science Program Over Gaza Crisi
The EU is reportedly considering partially excluding Israel from its Horizon Europe research initiative, marking the first potential sanction against Benjamin Netanyahu’s government since the conflict in Gaza began.
The decision would require majority support from EU member states, meaning no single country could veto the move.
Amid widespread criticism of the humanitarian situation in Gaza—including recent remarks from Donald Trump calling for an end to civilian suffering—this would be the bloc’s first concrete action.
A statement issued by the European Commission on July 28 noted: “While Israel has implemented daily humanitarian pauses and met some aid commitments, the crisis persists.”
The possible suspension stems from a review of the EU-Israel trade agreement, initiated after a request from the Netherlands in May, supported by 17 nations.
“This measure reflects concerns under Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which governs mutual obligations, including research collaboration,” the statement added.
The proposal was approved by the European Commission and will now be presented to member states for final approval.
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