US President Donald Trump is expected to confirm a “major trade deal” with the United Kingdom on Thursday, in what could be the first step toward easing recent global trade tensions triggered by sweeping tariffs.
Mr Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social platform, stating he would hold a news conference at 10am local time (3pm BST) from the Oval Office, alongside representatives from what he called a “big, and highly respected, country.”
Multiple US media outlets, including The New York Times, are reporting that the UK is the country involved, citing sources familiar with the plans.
The UK Government has so far declined to comment, but officials have confirmed that discussions with Washington have been ongoing.
Tariff Talks After April Crackdown
The expected deal would mark the first formal agreement since President Trump’s “liberation day” announcement on April 2, when he imposed sweeping tariffs on dozens of countries, including the UK — a move that sent shockwaves through global markets.
Since then, the US administration has been working to finalise 17 separate agreements with major trading partners to soften the blow of the tariffs.
Pressure Mounts on Trump to Deliver
The US President has come under increasing pressure from investors to show early progress on trade. The tariffs sparked significant market volatility, prompting concern among business leaders about the long-term implications.
In the UK, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said the government has been working “flat out” to secure a deal with the US that could shield key British exports from steep levies, particularly those on steel, cars, and technology.
UK-India Deal Signals Broader Strategy
The expected announcement comes just days after the UK signed a landmark trade deal with India, which will see dramatic tariff reductions on Scotch whisky, cars, aerospace and food exports. UK consumers are also expected to benefit, with tariffs cut on Indian textiles and clothing.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, unveiling the India deal earlier this week, said:
“We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy and putting more money in working people’s pockets.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the agreement as a “historic milestone”, calling it an “ambitious and mutually beneficial” pact that will drive growth, job creation, and innovation in both countries.
More to Come
The White House is expected to unveil further agreements in the coming weeks, as it works to recalibrate US trade policy amid mounting global pressure.
Sky News will bring you live coverage of President Trump’s announcement and analysis of what the deal means for Britain and its key industries.
