UK Trade Relations Amid US Tariff Concerns

Concerns over the future of UK-US trade relations are intensifying as Donald Trump's potential re-election raises fears of heightened tariffs and trade barriers. Recent polling indicates that a majority of the British public now favors stronger trade ties with the European Union over the United States, with only 19% prioritizing relations with the U.S. amid skepticism about Trump's influence. The Centre for Inclusive Trade Policy warns that a blanket 20% tariff on UK goods could lead to a £22 billion drop in exports. Prime Minister Keir Starmer argues that the UK can maintain strong relationships with both the EU and the U.S., countering the notion of a forced choice between the two. As the UK seeks new trade deals post-Brexit, its relations with the U.S. remain complicated, particularly over agricultural trade concerns. Meanwhile, Brexit has exacerbated a divide in UK trade performance, with goods exports struggling while services exports have seen significant growth.