UK, US Discuss Trade Deal Amid Rising Tariffs

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and U.S. President Donald Trump are engaged in urgent negotiations for a trade agreement ahead of anticipated new tariffs set to be announced on April 2, described by Trump as 'Liberation Day.' The discussions, characterized as 'productive,' aim to protect the UK from a proposed 25% tariff on car imports and other potential levies that could significantly impact the British economy. Despite concerns that an agreement may not be finalized before the tariff announcement, both leaders committed to continuing their talks, with the UK government seeking to minimize economic disruptions. Starmer emphasized the importance of a deal to maintain strong trade ties, while Trump indicated readiness to negotiate tariff exemptions with proactive partners like the UK. The UK government hopes to establish an 'economic prosperity deal,' which may fall short of a full free trade agreement, to mitigate the impact of rising trade tensions. The outcome of these negotiations could set a precedent for other nations affected by similar tariff measures.