The EU Parliament's trade committee is poised to postpone the approval of a trade agreement with the USA during an upcoming meeting. Christel Schaldemose, the Parliament's vice president, stated that it is essential for agreements to be honored, emphasizing concerns over the US side’s reliability regarding the pact. This decision reflects a cautious approach as the committee seeks to clarify the situation before proceeding further.

The trade agreement, signed in August, included provisions for a 15 percent tariff on European goods. However, recent developments have challenged the viability of the accord, particularly following a ruling by the US Supreme Court that declared former President Trump's authority to impose global tariffs limited. This legal backdrop creates uncertainty over the enforceability of aspects of the agreement that may have been contingent on US actions.

By delaying the approval, the EU Parliament aims to reassess its position and ensure that the agreement aligns with broader trade objectives and legal frameworks. This pause could have implications for transatlantic relations and the economic landscape, as both regions evaluate the best path forward in their trade interactions. It underscores the complexities involved in international trade negotiations, particularly when political and legal factors come into play.