STARMER TO PRESS TRUMP FOR STEEL TARIFF RELIEF DURING U.S. VISIT
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to push for immediate implementation of steel tariff relief during a critical meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Scotland. The talks, scheduled for July 25, 2025, come amid growing pressure on the UK government to shield its steel industry from heavy American trade barriers, as part of a broader economic engagement between the two leaders.
In May 2025, the UK and U.S. reached a landmark “Economic Prosperity Agreement,” which included commitments to eliminate the 25% tariff on UK steel and aluminum imposed under Trump’s earlier trade policies. The deal also offered reduced tariffs on UK-manufactured cars and expanded access for British agricultural and aerospace exports. However, despite the fanfare surrounding the announcement, the steel tariff relief portion of the deal has yet to be fully implemented.
Time is running out. In June, the United States increased global tariffs on steel and aluminum to 50%, sparking concern in allied nations. The UK received a temporary exemption, leaving its exports subject only to the original 25% levy. That exemption, however, is set to expire in early July. Without full implementation of the agreed terms, British steel exporters could soon face the punishing 50% tariff rate—raising fears of canceled orders, reduced competitiveness, and potential job losses in the UK’s already strained steel sector.
Starmer is expected to use the face-to-face meeting with Trump at his golf resort in Scotland to push for a final resolution. His message will be direct: the agreed terms must be honored, and steel tariffs must be lifted without further delay. Officials close to the talks say Starmer will highlight the strategic and economic value of the UK steel industry and stress the political importance of delivering results for British workers.
The meeting also comes at a crucial geopolitical moment. While Starmer seeks to reinforce strong ties with the U.S., Trump’s renewed presence on the global stage and “America First” approach to trade has cast uncertainty over transatlantic economic cooperation. Nonetheless, both sides have expressed optimism that the deal can be finalized quickly, with British negotiators in regular contact with U.S. trade representatives to resolve technical barriers, including compliance with U.S. origin rules on imported steel materials.
The UK’s steel industry has welcomed the trade deal but remains wary of delays. Industry group UK Steel has warned that failure to finalize the tariff relief could result in major losses for British producers and supply chain disruption. The group has urged the government to act swiftly and decisively to protect UK jobs and safeguard exports to a vital overseas market.
Beyond steel, the Starmer–Trump talks are expected to touch on other sectors affected by tariffs, including whisky, pharmaceuticals, and automotive goods. The broader goal is to establish a more stable and mutually beneficial trade relationship that reflects the longstanding alliance between the two nations.
As the July deadline looms, Starmer’s diplomatic outreach will be a key test of his leadership on the international stage—and a critical opportunity to deliver tangible economic relief at home.