On July 27, 2025, President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed on a new trade deal concerning tariffs. The deal established a 15% tariff on most European goods, which officially took effect on August 1. While both sides agreed to eliminate tariffs on certain goods such as aircraft, basic drugs, and agricultural equipment, the ongoing 50% tariff on major materials like steel and aluminum remains unchanged. In comparison to last year’s rates, the new 15% tariff reflects a significant increase—more than three times higher than the previous year. Additionally, as part of the agreement, President Trump announced that the European Union would purchase $750 billion worth of American energy throughout the next three years and significantly increase its investment in the United States by more than $600 billion.
Since the announcement, the trade deal has also had a major impact on European countries, sparking backlash from several European leaders. For instance, European Parliament member Bernd Lange from Germany wrote on social media, “My first assessment: not satisfactory. This is a lopsided deal.” Likewise, French Prime Minister François Bayrou claimed, “It is a dark day when an alliance of free peoples, gathered to affirm their values and defend their interests, resolves to submit.”
To explore how this may affect Concord Academy students in particular, here are five everyday products that have become more expensive due to the new US-EU trade deal.
Since the agreement, personal care products from European countries have become more expensive. These European-sourced items are popularly used among teenagers, so rising costs could generate issues.. For example, many students rely on specialized skincare products to treat acne or sensitive skin. European brands like La Roche-Posay and Bioderma are now less affordable due to higher import prices. In addition, popular cosmetic brands such as L’Oréal, Dior, Chanel, and The Body Shop have also experienced price increases, complicating students’ access to these products.
At Concord Academy, many students, especially upperclassmen, drive themselves to school. Purchasing or maintaining a European car, such as an Audi or Volkswagen, has become more challenging due to the US-EU trade deal. Additionally, buying essential vehicle parts such as brake pads, oil filters, or car batteries from European brands now involves financial barriers because of increased costs.
A third everyday product that will financially burden students is electronics. Many parts in these devices originate from Europe, so their overall prices have increased. Students entering their freshman year at CA are required to have a laptop that will last them through the four years of high school. Due to the 15% tariff increase, these laptops, along with other devices, have become significantly more expensive and less affordable for Concord Academy students.
In addition, pharmaceuticals, including prescription medications, have also become more expensive. For many Concord Academy students, over-the-counter meds are essential for overall well-being and academic performance. As a result of the recent tariffs, medications for ADHD, insulin and diabetes care, allergies, and pain relief now cost more. Many students rely on European brands and, depending on the circumstance, switching to U.S.-made alternatives may not be preferred or even effective.
Finally, clothing is another essential aspect of everyday life affected by the new trade deal. With the 15% tariff on European imports, recognized brands such as Zara, H&M, Puma, Adidas, and Saint Laurent have become noticeably less affordable. This change is especially significant for boarding students at Concord Academy, since students often rely on online shopping during the school year. As a result, the new tariffs limit both the variety and affordability of clothing options available to them
While some details of the agreement are still being finalized, the US-EU trade deal officially took effect on August 1. As a result, the U.S. is already seeing significant cost increases, which are expected to impact students and families as the new school year begins. With everyday products—from school supplies to personal health items—becoming more expensive, these tariffs are already creating noticeable challenges in people's daily lives.