The United States Vice President JD Vance expressed that there is a “great opportunity” for the UK and the US to reach a bilateral trade agreement, emphasizing President Donald Trump’s deep affection for the UK.
In an interview with the UnHerd website on Monday, Vance said, “We are actively working with the government of Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, to push for a trade agreement.”
“The President loves the UK very much,” he said. “His relationship with the UK is not just on a business level, but a deep cultural connection. After all, the US is fundamentally an Anglo nation.”
Vance added, “I believe we have a great opportunity to reach a ‘great deal’ that benefits both sides.”
When Trump announced a new round of global tariff policies earlier this month, the UK was not exempt but was only subjected to a 10% uniform tariff, much lower than the EU’s 20%. The UK’s automotive and steel industries, however, face a 25% tariff. Overall, the trade in goods between the UK and the US is relatively balanced, with a surplus in services trade.
Vance stated that compared to other European countries like Germany, the UK negotiates with the US on a more equal footing. “Of course, we also like the Germans, but they are extremely dependent on exporting to the US while setting up significant barriers for American companies wanting to enter the German market.”
UK officials have indicated that negotiations are ongoing, initially focusing on cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI) and technology sectors but may also expand to include food and other goods. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, is expected to travel to Washington later this month to attend the International Monetary Fund (IMF) spring meetings and continue advancing the negotiation process.
During his first term, Trump made a state visit to the UK and was received by the late Queen. Recently, King Charles III invited Trump for another visit to the UK through Prime Minister Starmer, which Trump showed clear delight in accepting.
In the interview, Vance also discussed the overall relationship between Europe and the US, stating that although Europe is an ally, the US hopes for more autonomy from Europe in defense and trade.
“I love Europe, I love the European people, but I hope Europe can be more independent,” Vance pointed out. “I repeatedly emphasize that American culture cannot be separated from European culture.”
However, he also expressed that Europe cannot always be a “security vassal” of the US as it isn’t beneficial for either Europe or the US.
Vance expressed his hope that European leaders can strengthen policy reforms on immigration and the economy. He said, “European citizens continue to express their expectations for more reasonable policies, but European leaders persist in implementing policies that deviate from public opinion.”
Following the EU’s announcement of a 20% “equivalent tariff,” Trump temporarily postponed the previously scheduled 25% retaliatory tariffs, reducing it to a 10% uniform tax rate. The EU, in turn, suspended the initially planned 25% additional tariffs and expressed a desire to reach an agreement with the US during this period.
(This article references reporting from CNBC and The Guardian)