Overview
- Rachel Reeves is meeting US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to negotiate relief from President Trump's tariffs on British goods, steel, aluminum, and cars.
- The UK Chancellor has emphasized that any trade deal must prioritize Britain’s national interest and will not compromise UK regulatory standards, including food safety and the Online Safety Act.
- The US administration has reportedly set a 10% tariff on British goods as a baseline unlikely to be reduced, complicating negotiations.
- The IMF has downgraded the UK's growth forecast from 1.6% to 1.1% for 2025, citing the impact of US tariffs and domestic economic challenges, including high energy costs.
- Recent PMI data shows UK private sector activity at a 29-month low, reflecting declining overseas demand as Reeves works to ease trade barriers.