UK-US Trade Deal Cuts Steel, Car Tariffs Boosts Exports

The recent UK-US trade deal, hailed as historic by both Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former President Donald Trump, significantly reduces tariffs on British steel, aluminium, and cars, offering vital relief to key UK industries. Tariffs on British car exports to the US have been cut from 27.5% to 10% for the first 100,000 vehicles annually, while steel and aluminium tariffs have been removed entirely, which is expected to save thousands of jobs. The agreement also opens US market access to British beef and provides assurances for the life sciences sector, although a 10% tariff remains on most other goods, reflecting the deal’s limited scope. Experts and officials caution that the deal is more of a political milestone than a comprehensive free trade agreement, with ongoing uncertainties particularly around intellectual property and broader logistics implications. Starmer’s pragmatic approach, maintaining dialogue despite challenges, has been credited with securing this breakthrough amid complex transatlantic relations and recent US tariff impositions. While the deal is seen as a crucial step forward, further negotiations will be needed to expand its reach and solidify supply chain confidence.