The European Commission has returned a revised draft joint statement on trade and tariffs back to Washington, signalling that negotiations with the United States are still in motion despite an initial framework deal struck last month.

Speaking at a press conference in Brussels on Tuesday 19th August, a European Commission spokesman confirmed that the bloc had responded to a US draft text received last week. “I can confirm that we have sent back the draft joint statement to the US,” the spokesman said, adding that discussions at political level remain ongoing.

High-level negotiations

Talks are continuing between European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. While progress has been made, officials on both sides have underlined that work is still needed to finalise the joint statement. “The work continues,” the Commission spokesman told reporters, underscoring the sensitive nature of the negotiations.

Progress since July framework deal

The European Union and the United States agreed a framework trade deal in late July, which set a baseline tariff of 15%. However, much of the agreement has yet to be implemented. Brussels is awaiting further executive orders from the White House to cover sector-specific carve-outs, most notably in the automotive industry.

Looking ahead

Officials expect the next stage of talks to focus on clarifying the scope of exemptions and providing greater certainty for industries most affected by transatlantic tariffs. While the return of the draft text suggests progress, both sides appear cautious as they attempt to balance domestic pressures with the broader goal of stabilising EU–US trade relations.

See also: 

EU–US trade deal sparks outrage as 15% tariff hits European exports

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