How the EU–US Trade Deal Works for Chemical Imports

What changed—and why it matters

Under the new framework, many EU-origin products face a maximum combined charge of 15% when entering the U.S. In practical terms, if a normal duty is 6.5% and an extra 10% tariff would otherwise apply, you don’t pay 16.5%. You pay up to 15% total.

Why you care: clearer landed costs, less volatility, better budgeting.

How the 15% cap works

• It’s a ceiling: Your total charge (duty + any extra tariff) won’t exceed 15% for covered goods.
• It’s product-specific: Coverage depends on the customs code and EU origin.
• Dates matter: Some categories activate at different times. We check the effective date before you book.

What counts as “EU origin”

• Simple re-packing/blending isn’t enough.
• Your product needs qualifying transformation in the EU under the relevant rules.
• Not sure? We review your manufacturing steps and paperwork to confirm origin before you ship.

Impact by product line we supply

(We validate each HS code before quoting.)

• Acrylates (2-EHA, butyl, ethyl, MMA including Eco-MMA/RMMA): low-to-moderate base duties; the cap limits worst-case exposure on larger lots in IBCs/totes.
• Acetates (ethyl, n-propyl, butyl): similar pattern—use the cap to lock in predictability for quarterly buys.
• Glycols (MEG, DEG, mono/di-propylene glycol; glycol ethers): many lines already low duty; the cap protects against add-ons.
• Solvents (isopropyl alcohol, acetone, dearomatized D40/D60, toluene, xylene): plan shipments knowing covered lines won’t exceed 15% total.
• Phosphoric acid & glycerin: assessed line by line; cap logic may apply—ask us to confirm.

A quick example:

You import butyl acrylate at $1,500 per metric ton (CIF).

• Normal duty (example): 6.5% = $97.50/ton
• Extra tariff (example): 10%
• With the cap: pay 15% total, i.e., $225/ton (not $247.50)

FAQs

Does every EU shipment get the 15% cap?

No. It depends on the customs code and EU origin status of the product.

Is the cap permanent?

Trade rules evolve. We check the latest effective dates and product lists before each quote.

What documents do I need?

Commercial invoice, packing list, origin documentation, and any process evidence that proves qualifying transformation.

Will re-bottling in the EU qualify as EU origin?

Usually not—simple re-packing rarely meets the threshold.

How do I estimate my landed cost with the cap?

Multiply your CIF value by 15% as a maximum, then compare with the normal duty. Your charge is the higher of those two up to the cap for covered goods.

How Chemicals United makes this easy

1. HS-by-HS verification: We confirm coverage, timing, and the correct base duty.
2. Origin check: We validate your processing so your shipments genuinely qualify as EU origin.
3. Quote transparency: We show assumed duty/tariff lines in €/t or $/t—no surprises.
4. Timing & logistics: We align load dates and packaging (bulk, IBCs, drums) to capture savings.