US Vice President JD Vance said the US is trying to secure a “great” trade deal with the UK, amidst ongoing global trade tensions.
His remarks come in the wake of recent market volatility sparked by US tariff impositions.
President Trump’s initial sweeping tariffs triggered global economic concerns and stock market declines. However, subsequent adjustments have seen tariff rates reduced to 10% for most countries, with further exemptions for electronics like smartphones and laptops, even those imported from China, which had faced a 145% levy.
The UK government has been pursuing a tariff exemption deal with the US. In a recent interview with UnHerd, Vice President Vance expressed optimism about reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. He stated that the US is “working very hard” with the UK on negotiations.
“We’re certainly working very hard with Keir Starmer’s government” on a trade deal, Mr Vance said.
“The President really loves the United Kingdom. He loved the Queen. He admires and loves the King. It is a very important relationship. And he’s a businessman and has a number of important business relationships in [Britain]. But I think it’s much deeper than that.
“There’s a real cultural affinity. And, of course, fundamentally, America is an Anglo country.
“I think there’s a good chance that, yes, we’ll come to a great agreement that’s in the best interest of both countries.”
Mr Vance said the “reciprocal relationship” between the US and UK gave Britain a more advantageous position than other European countries when it comes to negotiating new trade arrangements, adding: “While we love the Germans, they are heavily dependent on exporting to the United States but are pretty tough on a lot of American businesses that would like to export into Germany.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves will aim to continue negotiations for an economic deal with the US later this month when she travels to Washington to attend the International Monetary Fund’s spring meetings with other finance ministers.
