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What do US Tariffs mean for UK exporters – and where else can you trade?

After weeks of speculation, UK exporters finally have clarity: a blanket 10% tariff will now apply to many goods heading to the United States. While some businesses may feel relieved to have a clear figure to work with, the broader impact is significant. According to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), the new tariffs, including the previously announced 25% duties on steel, aluminium, cars, and other automotives, could affect up to £6 billion worth of UK-US trade and dampen the UK’s wider economic growth. So, where do UK exporters go from here? One thing is clear: building long-term trade relationships under unpredictable conditions is a major challenge. Trade wars help no one, and uncertainty around potential UK or EU retaliation only adds to the unease.

Fiona Parsons

3 April, 2025

Business West

BCC Press Release: US Tariffs To Hit UK Economy

Reacting to news of a 10% tariff on all UK exports to the US and higher tariffs for other countries, Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “The Government has kept a cool head so far and must continue to negotiate. This is a marathon not a sprint, and getting the best deal for the UK is what matters most. “But no-one will escape the fallout from these decisions, there will be an increased risk of trade diversion, and it will wreak havoc on businesses communities across the world. “Orders will drop, prices will rise, and global economic demand will be weaker as a result. This is a lose-lose situation for everyone. “So, it is vitally important that the government does not give up on negotiations. Tariffs can be lifted at any time and the US has signalled its willingness to do some form of deal with us. “The UK is not without influence, our bilateral trade with the US is worth £300bn, we have £500bn invested there and it has £700bn tied up in our economy. There is a high-level of co-dependency and we are speaking to businesses across the UK on options for government to consider. “There are no winners in the current scenario, negotiations will take time and will inevitably involve compromise. Any decisions on taxes will need to be taken very carefully, and the government must consider all its fiscal options. “It should keep everything on the table during talks, but retaliatory tariffs should only be a last resort. “Many firms, especially SMEs, will now be facing difficult decisions and we urge government to do all it can to provide practical support to them. “We would advise businesses to immediately start negotiations with their US customers on managing the impact of these tariffs - depending on their contracts, there may be deals to be done. In the long-term exploring replacement markets, especially the EU, CPTPP countries or other trade deals, due to be made later this year, will be options. “Support may also be available from the British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee scheme which can offer financial support to firms with cashflow issues.”

Fiona Parsons

3 April, 2025

Business West

Springing Ahead with ATA Carnet Progress

As spring unfolds, it's the perfect time to reflect on recent milestones and exciting developments in our ATA Carnet services – particularly in the drive towards digital transformation. Record-Breaking February February 2025 marked the busiest February on record for our ATA Carnet service. This surge in carnet issuances and transactions highlights the increasing reliance of UK businesses on the ATA Carnet scheme as a trusted tool for the temporary, duty- and tax-free movement of goods.

Hilary Rossborough

1 April, 2025

Business West

Q&A with Conservative Party West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Metro Mayor candidate Steve Smith

Editor's note: earlier this month, the Bristol Initiative hosted the first hustings for the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority's next Metro Mayor with candidates from the Conservative, Green, Labour and Liberal Democrat parties in attendance. We invited all candidates to do a Q&A on our blog, and here we speak to candidate Steve Smith of the Conservative Party.

Steve Smith

31 March, 2025

Business West

Q&A with Labour Party West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Metro Mayor candidate Helen Godwin

Editor's note: earlier this month, the Bristol Initiative hosted the first hustings for the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority's next Metro Mayor with candidates from the Conservative, Green, Labour and Liberal Democrat parties in attendance. We invited all candidates to do a Q&A on our blog, and here we speak to candidate Helen Godwin of the Labour Party.

Helen Godwin

28 March, 2025

Business West

11 Questions with Ed Rowberry, President of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative

Ed Rowberry, the newly appointed President of the Bristol Chamber & Initiative, brings a wealth of experience, a deep love for Bristol, and a clear vision for the region’s future. As CEO of BBRC, he has already driven over £70m in investment into the West of England, championing sustainable and inclusive growth. In this Q&A, Ed shares his journey, his hopes for the role, and why he believes Bristol’s business community can be a powerful force for good.

Anonymous Author

27 March, 2025

Business West