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The UK hopes to protect themselves from the arrogance of tariffs on Trump

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump shake hands during a joint press conference in the Eastern House, February 27, 2025 in Washington, Colombia, US

Carl Court | Through Reuters

As countries around the world are fueled for the sale of US President Donald Trump’s trading tariffs and with more focused levies, the UK is still hoping that it can avoid the worst of import duties.

In recent weeks, Britain has advertised its much more balanced trade relations with the US, looking for a softer approach from Trump. The White House leader is turning back against the state trade deficit with their largest trading partners such as Canada, China, Mexico and the European Union, and either imposed or threatening (as in the EU) up to 25% of import tariffs.

The UK has more nuanced commercial relations with the US, with The latest data published in February pointing to virtually balanced trade when it comes to imports and exports of goods, as well as surplus about trade in services.

Washington’s saving is sweet for Britain – the United States has been the largest trading partner in the UK for the year before September 2024, which is more than 17% of the total British trade, Official data shows.

Trump is regarded as a soft place for the UK and Noticeably enjoyed a previous state visit to the country. He was recently invited by King Charles for the second time. The president also seems to have a good connection with Prime Minister Keir Starr, despite various ideological origin, and previously acknowledged that the US-UK trade relations for him are less- and stating that he is he Believed that the trade transaction could be developed.

However, Trump’s promise to introduce tariffs for “all countries” led to the fading hopes in Britain that a specific trade deal with Washington could be developed before the White House is announced on Wednesday.

US President Donald Trump meets with British Prime Minister Keira Starmer in the White House in Washington, Colombia District, February 27, 2025.

Kevin Lamark | Reuters

However, the glimpse of hope is delayed, however, to a large extent from Trump’s tendency to healing between softer and more punitive positions.

A Washington Post reported On Tuesday, the White House assistants developed an offer that charges the tariffs of about 20% on most imports.

The document cited by three people, acquaintances with this issue, noted that the advisers warned that several options remained on the table, that is, 20% of the tariffs cannot come true. Another plan considered is a “mutual” approach to the country, reports the Washington Post. CNBC turned to the White House for comments.

“The likelihood that there will be tariffs”

British Prime Minister Kire Strmer said on Tuesday Sky News that the UK was “working on an economic transaction” and stated that “rapid progress” had been made, but warned that the deal could take time.

He acknowledged that the country could still be subject to a new levy, but Trump has already announced a 25% tariff for the import of steel and aluminum and “all machines that are not made in the United States.” The last Levy came into force on Wednesday.

“I don’t think anyone wants to see tariffs” – Starmer Told Sky News. “We are working hard on the economic deal on which we have made rapid progress, and I hope we will be able to make really fast resolutions,” he said.

“The likelihood is that there will be tariffs. Nobody welcomes it. We obviously work with the sectors most affected. Nobody wants to see the trade war. But I have to act in national interests, and it means that all options should remain on the table,” he added.

British Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds insisted on BBC on Tuesday that current talks with Trump administration mean Britain meant Britain was in the “best position of any country” to abolish the duties of trade duties.

It is still unclear what it will be announced on Wednesday, economists say.

“From the point of view of the future tariffs, we still do not know which countries they will be imposed and what rate. It is fair to say that the administration will not be ready yet,” the administration said on Tuesday.

“The White House spokeswoman Levitz said (on Monday) that the planned Rose-garden would be presented with” tariffs based on the country, with further industry duties, “analysts said.

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