Learn how to import to the EU, a key market with strict regulations but vast opportunities. Explore trends, trade agreements, and essential strategies for success.
Europe continues to assert itself as a powerhouse in global trade, known for its leadership in high-tech industries, automotive manufacturing, and industrial machinery. During 2024, the region maintained its strong export position, with economic heavyweights such as Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Italy driving growth.
According to Eurostat, exports of goods from the European Union (EU) to the rest of the world grew by 1.1% in 2024, reaching €2.58 trillion. Meanwhile, imports declined by 4.2%, totaling €2.43 trillion. This shift resulted in a substantial trade surplus of €150.1 billion, a notable increase from the €28.3 billion surplus recorded in 2023.
The United States remained the EU’s top export destination, with shipments valued at €531.6 billion in 2024—a 5.5% increase from the previous year. Conversely, China was the EU’s largest importer, supplying €517.8 billion in goods, which marked a 4% decline compared to 2023.
One of Europe’s biggest strengths is its high-tech exports, which include telecommunications equipment, semiconductors, automotive electronics, aerospace technology, and AI-driven innovations. These industries reinforce Europe’s leadership in global trade and technology development.
Aerodoc provides an in-depth analysis of Europe’s trade potential, offering valuable insights for companies looking to expand into this highly regulated yet opportunity-rich market.
Europe: A Competitive Market for Tech Importers
Europe’s highly developed infrastructure, regulatory consistency, and strong consumer demand make it a prime destination for technology importers. With a market of over 450 million consumers, the region offers streamlined customs procedures and harmonized standards that simplify market entry.
However, competition is fierce, with domestic and international players vying for market share. Importers must navigate strict data protection laws, digital services regulations, and environmental policies, such as the EU’s push for carbon neutrality.
World-Class Manufacturing and Logistics
Europe boasts some of the most sophisticated industrial and logistics networks globally. Major ports like Rotterdam (Netherlands), Hamburg (Germany), and Antwerp (Belgium) provide efficient trade routes for imports and exports.
Skilled Workforce and Digital Economy
Additionally, the region benefits from a highly educated workforce with strong technical and engineering expertise. The EU actively fosters workforce development through programs like Horizon Europe, supporting digital transformation and AI-driven solutions.
Regulatory Frameworks and Compliance
The EU enforces strict regulatory standards, including CE marking requirements, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for data protection, and RoHS compliance for electronic products. While these regulations ensure product safety and consumer protection, they can present challenges for businesses unfamiliar with Europe’s rigorous import requirements.
Trade Agreements and Economic Partnerships
Strategic trade agreements that facilitate global commerce reinforce Europe’s influence in international trade.
European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1960 as an alternative to the European Economic Community (EEC). Its current members—Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland—focus on free trade and economic cooperation. Unlike the EU, EFTA is not a customs or political union. Over the years, it has signed multiple free trade agreements, enabling its members to access global markets without EU membership. Key agreements include deals with Canada, Mexico, South Korea, and Singapore.
EFTA countries maintain close ties with the EU through the European Economic Area (EEA), allowing Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway to participate in the single market without being EU members.
EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
The EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which took effect in 2019, is one of the world’s most important trade agreements. Together, the EU and Japan account for nearly one-third of global GDP. The agreement eliminates tariffs on more than 90% of traded goods. Japan removed duties on European exports such as cheese, wine, and pork, while the EU lowered tariffs on Japanese automotive products and components.
EU Common Trade Policy
The EU’s Common Trade Policy serves as a fundamental mechanism for regulating trade relations with non-EU countries. As an exclusive EU competence, trade decisions are made at the regional level rather than by individual member states. The primary goal is to promote free trade while ensuring fair competition for European businesses.
The EU negotiates trade agreements with other nations and economic blocs to remove trade barriers and facilitate the exchange of goods and services. Beyond trade in goods, the policy also covers investment protection, intellectual property rights, environmental standards, and labor rights. Notable trade agreements include deals with Canada (CETA), Japan, South Korea, and Mercosur.
EU-U.S. Trade Tensions
Trade relations between the EU and the US have escalated sharply since the Trump administration announced new tariffs earlier this year. In February 2025, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on key European products, including automobiles, steel, and agricultural goods, citing unfair trade practices by the European Union.
The EU responded swiftly. In March, it implemented countermeasures valued at €26 billion, targeting American motorcycles, alcoholic beverages, tech products, and several other sectors. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that the retaliation was “measured and necessary to defend European interests.”
Tensions reached a peak in early April when President Trump introduced the “Liberation Day Tariffs,” including a general 10% tariff on all US imports and an additional 20% tariff specifically on European products. Facing growing political and economic pressure, the US administration announced a 90-day suspension of the additional tariffs starting April 10, temporarily maintaining only the 10% tariff on EU goods. However, previously existing tariffs — such as the 25% duties on European steel, aluminum, and automobiles — remain fully in effect.
In a reciprocal move, the European Union reinstated tariffs ranging from 10% to 25% on approximately €8 billion worth of U.S. goods and announced new 25% duties on an additional €18 billion of American exports, including food, beverages, consumer goods, and transportation equipment. Nevertheless, the EU also agreed to suspend these retaliatory measures for 90 days, beginning April 15, to allow space for negotiations.
Opportunities and Challenges for Importing to Europe
Navigating Europe’s regulatory environment and market entry conditions requires a well-planned strategy to deal with:
- Strict customs procedures and compliance requirements, including CE certification and VAT registration.
- Variability in regulations across EU member states, despite a unified market.
- Potential supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical events.
With ongoing regulatory shifts, trade tensions, and new international agreements booming, staying informed and seeking expert guidance is key for success in the European market.
Aerodoc has developed a series of guides offering up-to-date insights on entering key European markets as part of its Global Trade Essentials service. The first guide is now available.
For more information about our services, contact our team of experts today.
Q&A
- What makes the EU an attractive market for importers? The EU is one of the world’s largest and most sophisticated consumer markets. With over 450 million consumers and a strong demand for high-tech products, industrial equipment, and sustainable solutions, the EU’s highly developed infrastructure, advanced logistics networks, and harmonized trade standards create an efficient and structured environment for global commerce.
- What are the biggest regulatory challenges when importing to the EU? The EU enforces some of the world’s strictest import regulations to ensure product safety, sustainability, and fair competition. Compliance with CE marking requirements is essential for many industrial, technological, and consumer goods.
- How do EU trade agreements impact importers? The EU has established a network of trade agreements that lower tariffs and simplify market access for international businesses. For instance, the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) eliminates tariffs on over 90% of traded goods, making it easier for companies to operate between these economic powerhouses. Similarly, the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with Canada streamlines customs procedures and reduces import costs.
- What role does compliance play in the EU’s competitive market? Strict regulatory oversight means compliance is not just an administrative task but a critical factor for business success. Companies looking to import into the EU must have robust quality assurance and legal compliance mechanisms to meet the region’s evolving standards.
- What are the biggest risks and opportunities when importing to the EU? The EU’s complex regulatory framework, high tariffs on certain goods, and ongoing geopolitical tensions can pose business challenges. For example, the recent trade tensions between the EU and the United States have led to new tariffs on key imports, affecting supply chain costs.
