As of 1 July 2026, Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 has entered into force, introducing significant changes to the import of goods originating in the United States. The new regulation reduces or eliminates customs duties on a wide range of U.S. products while opening tariff quotas for selected agricultural goods.
These measures form part of the broader EU–U.S. trade framework established to stabilize transatlantic trade following the additional U.S. tariffs introduced during 2025.
What’s changing?
The new regulation introduces several important measures, including:
- Elimination of customs duties for a broad range of industrial products originating in the United States.
- Reduced import duties for various agricultural and food products.
- New tariff-rate quotas for selected products such as pork, dairy products, nuts, fruit and vegetables.
- Removal of the ad valorem duty for certain products while maintaining the specific duty component.
For many importers, these changes may result in lower landed costs and improved sourcing opportunities.
What does this mean for importers?
Companies importing goods from the United States should assess how these changes affect their customs operations and supply chains.
An important aspect of the new regulation is that, until preferential rules of origin have been agreed between the European Union and the United States, importers must rely on the EU’s non-preferential rules of origin to benefit from these tariff measures. Businesses must therefore be able to demonstrate that their products qualify as originating in the United States under the applicable non-preferential origin rules before claiming the reduced duties or tariff-rate quotas.
Key considerations include:
- Determining whether imported products qualify for the new preferential treatment.
- Verifying the origin of goods in accordance with EU customs rules.
- Identifying opportunities to benefit from tariff-rate quotas.
- Reviewing existing contracts, pricing structures and sourcing strategies.
- Ensuring customs declarations and compliance processes remain accurate.
A correct tariff classification and origin assessment remain essential to benefit from the available customs preferences.
The situation remains dynamic
Although the regulation provides substantial tariff relief, it also includes safeguard mechanisms. The European Commission retains the authority to suspend these preferences if the United States fails to comply with the agreed trade framework or if increased imports cause, or threaten to cause, serious injury to EU industries.
In particular, developments relating to steel and aluminium products will continue to be closely monitored.
How should businesses prepare?
Businesses importing from the United States should consider performing a customs impact assessment to identify:
- Potential duty savings.
- Products eligible under the new regulation.
- Required updates to customs procedures.
- Opportunities to optimize international supply chains.
Early preparation will help businesses maximize the benefits of the new legislation while ensuring continued customs compliance.
Need support?
Our consultants closely monitor developments in international trade legislation and can help you assess the impact of the new EU regulation on your business. Whether you are reviewing import costs, validating product origin, or optimizing your customs strategy, we are here to help.
