Donald Trump has announced a major trade deal with the United Kingdom. This made his first international agreement since imposing new tariffs.
Trump secures first post-tariff trade deal
President Donald Trump has confirmed a landmark trade deal with the United Kingdom. This singalled a new era in transatlantic relations.
This marks his first major foreign agreement since reintroducing aggressive tariffs on global imports earlier this year.
Since returning to the White House in January 2025, Trump’s administration has implemented tariffs on several key trading partners.
Among them, the UK was hit with a 10% levy on exports and a 25% charge on goods like steel, aluminum, and automobiles.
Despite backlash from international leaders, Trump maintained his economic stance.
He framed the tariffs as necessary for protecting American industries.
Trump confirms ‘major’ new trade deal with UK
Trump and Starmer Applaud fantastic deal to strengthen US-UK economic ties.
Trump announced the agreement via Truth Social on May 7, teasing a press conference about a “MAJOR TRADE DEAL.”
Additionally, he called the UK a “BIG, AND HIGHLY RESPECTED COUNTRY,” stating this was the “FIRST OF MANY” upcoming deals.
He wrote: “Big News Conference tomorrow morning at 10:00 A.M., The Oval Office, concerning a MAJOR TRADE DEAL WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF A BIG, AND HIGHLY RESPECTED, COUNTRY. THE FIRST OF MANY!!!”
Speaking from the White House, Trump said the deal “cements a full and comprehensive relationship for years to come.”
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the agreement, calling it a “fantastic, historic day” during talks with the U.S. President.
Starmer confirmed that Britain had negotiated to reduce the impact of U.S. tariffs while preserving national economic interests.
Deal preserves UK food and digital standards
Reports suggest the UK may ease some tariffs on American imports and reconsider its digital services tax targeting US tech firms.
However, Starmer has firmly ruled out lowering food standards or weakening the Online Safety Act as part of the deal.
A Number 10 spokesperson reaffirmed the government’s position.
“The Prime Minister will always act in Britain’s national interest – for workers, for business, for families.
“The United States is an indispensable ally for both our economic and national security.” They stated.
At the London Defence Conference, Starmer said the deal supports “security and renewal.”
Additionally, He emphasized that national priorities must come before political interests.
He stressed the importance of fair, mutual cooperation while maintaining strong UK standards across key industries.
Critics raise concerns Over NHS, agriculture, and tech concession
Not all political leaders welcomed the trade announcement.
Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper warned of possible risks to the NHS, UK farming, and tax policy fairness.
She said, “This deal must not include clauses that give tax breaks to US tech giants or endanger public healthcare services.”
Cooper called for parliamentary oversight, urging the government to present the trade agreement to MPs for full scrutiny and transparency.
“There must be democratic accountability. If it’s a good deal, ministers should not fear a full debate in Parliament,” she added.