Major British Trade Delegation Visits the US

This week, a significant British trade delegation, comprising leaders from 230 companies, is set to arrive in Los Angeles for the Greater Together LA summit. This event aims to enhance trade and investment links between the UK and the US.

Following the historic state visit of the King and Queen to the East Coast in honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, Greater Together LA emphasizes the roles of innovation, capital, and enterprise in driving future prosperity for both nations.

California stands out as a prime location for this collaboration. The state is known for its forward-thinking culture, and the UK has been a prominent partner. Notably, Britain has been California’s largest foreign investor for the past two years, with British firms projected to generate over 130,000 jobs by 2025.

For US investors, the message is clear: the UK welcomes business operations. In these uncertain times, the UK emerges as a reliable haven for investment and ideas.

As the sixth-largest economy globally, with a capital of $13.5 trillion, the UK holds the position of the second-largest financial center, just behind New York. Global CEOs consistently rank the UK as the top investment destination in Europe, boasting four of the world’s leading universities.

In the first quarter of 2026, the UK’s economic growth outpaced that of other G7 nations, driven by planned reforms and ongoing investments in both infrastructure and skill development. With an emphasis on attracting top talent worldwide, the integration of innovation and productivity is beginning to yield tangible growth results.

The economic relationship between the UK and the US is recognized as the most integrated globally, with an annual trade volume of $430 billion, reflecting a 4% growth last year. Both countries have invested a combined $1.7 trillion in each other’s economies, supporting millions of jobs across the Atlantic. The UK proudly stands as the largest foreign investor in 21 US states, while the US remains the largest investor in the UK.

The current valuation of the UK’s technology ecosystem is $1.3 trillion. Collaborations in areas such as AI, quantum computing, life sciences, and clean energy showcase the commitment of British and American talent in pushing boundaries. A recent UK-California agreement aims to bolster cooperation in clean energy technology.

Yet, Greater Together LA extends beyond the realms of investment. It’s also about cultural exchange, people, and those unexpected connections that often ignite innovation.

Attendees will include notable figures like Simon Cowell, Cindy Rhodes, Mira Mulati, Sir Jony Ive, and others, alongside executives from British Airways, American Airlines, and News Corp.

The summit will also shine a light on the British film and television industry and showcase top UK universities through the British Council. Attendees will gain exclusive experiences with both the Premier League and the British Music Embassy.

The connectivity between the UK and the US is unmatched, with over 250 daily flights between the two countries, establishing them as the busiest transatlantic route, significantly ahead of any other country pair.

Reflecting on history, it’s intriguing to note that in 1776, the same year the US declared independence, British economist Adam Smith published a landmark book, The Wealth of Nations. His central idea remains relevant today: when ideas, goods, and people can move freely, everyone benefits.

This is precisely why the King and Queen are heading west this week, building on their East Coast visit to reinforce long-standing bonds of prosperity and creativity between the two nations for years to come.

When Britain and America unite their talents, capital, and ambitions, they’re not merely observers of the future; they’re actively shaping it.

It all begins in California.