The new US tariffs on EU goods presents a new challenge for many Irish exporters exporting to the US market. Most EU-origin goods now face a 15% tariff on exports to the US.  

For some businesses, these tariffs will challenge profitability, market competitiveness, supply chains, and may lead to reduced sales volumes  

But you’re not alone: as always, the National Enterprise Hub is your first stop for guidance, support (including market research grants), and practical next steps. Here’s what you need to know, stripped back and simple. 

In late July 2025, EU and US negotiators agreed on a single, all-inclusive 15% tariff on most EU goods exports to the US. It’s not ideal, but it’s better than the 30% that had been on the table. Not every product is hit – there are zero-tariff exceptions for things like aircraft, semiconductors, certain chemicals, and some agricultural and pharma products. There also may be some carve-outs in relation to medtech and spirits, but the details on this have not yet been confirmed. Companies, in the following sectors are likely to be affected the most: 

• Food & beverage: e.g. small artisanal cheesemakers, craft chocolate producers, or beverage exporters (e.g. Irish gin or whiskey) may see increased costs for US shipments and need to adjust pricing or explore alternative markets. 

• Engineering: e.g. SMEs producing specialised components, machine parts, or precision-engineering products for US manufacturers face added costs, impacting margins and competitiveness. 

• Life sciences: e.g. Companies producing diagnostic kits, medical devices, or lab chemicals exported to the US may experience higher costs per unit, affecting small-scale producers with tight cashflow. 

• Consumer products: e.g. Small Irish furniture makers, clothing designers, or giftware businesses exporting to the US could see the cost of their goods rise, requiring them to revisit pricing, sourcing, or shipping strategies. 

These new tariffs are a major challenge, but there's a plan in place and plenty of support available. Through the NEH, you can access hundreds of government-backed initiatives, including these key, tariff-specific options: 

• Enterprise Ireland’s Market Research Grant offers funding of up to €35,000 for companies to assess the full impact of tariffs, gain market insights and develop mitigation strategies.    

• Enterprise Ireland’s New Markets Validation Grant offers funding of up to €150,000 for companies to develop market entry strategies for new markets or new products.    

1. New Market Research Grant – Up to €35,000 to help you research how tariffs will affect pricing, supply chains, and your bottom line, plus strategies to mitigate those impacts. It covers market research and expert advice. 

2.  Enhanced Market Discovery Fund – Up to €150,000 to help you break into a new market or launch a new product in an existing market, diversifying beyond the US to sustain your growth and protect your margins. 

3.  One-to-one support – There is a dedicated Tariff Response Team ready to help you shape your export plan and connect with global support including Enterprise Ireland’s 42 offices worldwide. Contact the helpdesk on (01) 727 2100. 

4.  Ongoing tools & advice – Access trade tariff resources, strategic guidance, and dedicated advisors. Start by contacting our helpdesk and we’ll be able to point you in the right direction. 

Here’s a checklist to keep tariffs from derailing your business:  

• Step 1. Check if you’re affected: see if your products fall into the hit list or the tariff exceptions. If you're unsure, contact our Helpdesk today. 

• Step 2. Apply for the Market Research Grant: use it to understand your exposure and figure out how to respond. Maybe adjust pricing or refine your supply chain. 

• Step 3. Talk to us: you don’t have to figure any of this out alone. Have a chat today with one of our friendly Helpdesk advisors to find out what your best options are. 

• Step 4. Stay informed: Bookmark this page to keep an eye on tariff updates and sector-specific guidance in case further changes occur. 

Yes, the 15% tariff is unwelcome, but the NEH – and the broader government support network – are here to help. Whether that’s through funding, advice, or global connections, take advantage of these resources, diversify thoughtfully, and position your business to thrive even in uncertain times.

Call us today to talk through how tariffs could affect your business and let us help you find the best support.