Cliff Notes – White House looking at trade deals
- The White House is reviewing trade agreements from over 15 countries, with some announcements expected soon, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
- US Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism about securing a beneficial trade deal with the UK, highlighting the strong cultural and business ties between the two nations.
- Amid ongoing tensions with China, President Trump has briefly postponed implementing tariffs, while the UK seeks exemptions from existing tariffs implemented by the US.
White House looking at trade deals from more than 15 countries
The White House is looking at trade deals drafted by more than 15 countries, its press secretary has said.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said some deals with countries will be announced “very soon”.
It comes after US Vice President JD Vance said he believes the UK will get a “great agreement” because of the president’s affection for the country.
Last week, Donald Trump delayed imposing varying tariffs on the entire world by 90 days after global markets reacted with horror.
But the trade war with China continues with tariffs of up to 145% on goods going from China to the US and 125% on goods flowing the other way.
The UK government has been hopeful of a deal to exempt the UK from Mr Trump’s tariffs, and in an interview with the website UnHerd on Tuesday, Mr Vance said he was optimistic that both sides could come to a mutually beneficial agreement.
“We’re certainly working very hard with Keir Starmer’s government,” 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 gives 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.”
Additional sources
China’s economy surges, but tariffs effect is yet to be seen – Fosse 107
EU faces higher tariffs as US talks break down – The Telegraph
UK-US agreement may be ‘in the foothills’ but to call it a ‘trade deal’ would be misleading – Black Country Radio
Will Trump Negotiate Tariffs? These Countries Say They Want To Negotiate Fair Deals – Forbes