President Trump announced a trade deal with the UK on Thursday, which he and Prime Minister Kiel have touted as a significant political win.
Trump described the agreement as a “trade” that will enhance market access for American exports, especially in areas like beef, ethanol, and various agricultural products. Though specifics are still to be determined.
He mentioned that the UK would ease non-tariff barriers against US goods and expedite the customs process for American products.
“The final details will be crafted in the upcoming weeks,” Trump remarked, asserting that the arrangement is “very definitive” and “very beneficial for both countries.”
This announcement took place in the Oval Office, with British Prime Minister Kiel Starmer joining via phone. Vice President Vance, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and Agriculture Secretary Brook Rollins were also present.
“This is fantastic for the UK, and I think it really assists both nations. They’re opening up a bit, which is something we appreciate,” Trump stated.
On April 2, Trump imposed a mutual tariff of 10% on “liberation day.” A week later, facing pressure from Wall Street and Republicans, he suspended the planned hike for 90 days while keeping a consistent 10% tariff.
Starmer visited Trump in February, and the two held a press conference at the White House. The UK ranks as the 11th largest trading partner for the US, despite being among the top buyers of American goods and services.
While the agreement with the UK has not been finalized, the White House is celebrating it as a major triumph for Trump. He has been attempting to reassure markets and consumers about shifting messages regarding tariffs and the economy.
This trade engagement appears to be the culmination of years of discussions rather than a direct consequence of the recent tariffs on “liberation day.” The US recorded an $11.9 billion trade surplus in goods with the UK in 2024, placing the UK fifth among all trade partners.
“The US and the UK have been working on a deal for years, but nothing materialized until now. I want to congratulate the Prime Minister for this,” Trump commented.
He expressed, “We’ve accomplished what many have sought for years. It feels historic.”
This week, the UK also finalized a trade agreement with India aimed at reducing tariffs.
During a press conference, a reporter questioned Trump about whether he was overstating Thursday’s announcement, particularly given some feedback from UK officials.
“This is a significant deal,” Trump responded. “I believe we can expand from here, but this is the largest arrangement. It’s not misrepresented; you’ve got it wrong.”
The UK is one of several nations that maintain a trade surplus with the US, but the White House argues that tariff measures will be introduced to tackle deficits with other partners.
Trump’s team had engaged with various trading partners last month, but Thursday’s announcement marks the first of such a nature.
Trump stated, “Every country wants to trade.” Earlier in the week, he minimized the importance of trade agreements, asserting that “we don’t need contracts” and claiming he could sign multiple deals if desired.
Treasury Secretary Scott Becent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were in Switzerland on Thursday for discussions with their Chinese counterparts, amid initial signs of thawing relations following the US’s tariffs on China.
Becent suggested that negotiations on tariffs between India and the US might be progressing, noting that 17 negotiations “are moving” with other partners.
Updated at 11:21am
