UK Trade Deals: New Global Opportunities for Importers and Exporters

The UK has taken significant steps to strengthen its global trading relationships, concluding three key agreements in May with the European Union, the United States, and India.

These deals are set to reduce friction at the border, lower tariffs, and create new commercial opportunities for UK importers and exporters.

EU: Streamlining Trade Post-Brexit
On 19 May, the UK and the EU announced a new agreement that updates and refines their post-Brexit relationship. A major feature of the deal is a commitment to maintain existing fishing rights in return for reduced border checks on food exports. The vast majority of routine inspections on animal and plant products moving between the UK and the EU will be dropped, making it significantly easier for businesses trading in food and agricultural goods to operate with confidence and consistency.

US: Targeted Tariff Relief with Conditions
Earlier in the month, on 8 May, the UK secured a limited trade arrangement with the United States, focusing on the removal or reduction of certain tariffs. This includes a cut to import taxes on UK-made cars entering the US – down to 10% for up to 100,000 vehicles – and the removal of tariffs on steel and aluminium, introduced earlier this year.

While these reductions are welcome, quotas are expected to apply, particularly for metal-based products such as machinery, furniture and gym equipment. On the agricultural side, the UK has agreed to scrap 20% tariffs on US beef exports and expand the quota twelvefold, while confirming that UK food standards will remain unchanged.

Pharmaceutical trade remains under discussion, with no new terms yet agreed.

India: The UK’s Most Significant Post-Brexit Deal
On 6 May, the UK and India finalised a wide-ranging bilateral trade deal – described by the UK government as its most economically significant agreement since leaving the EU.

Although it may take up to a year to come into force, the agreement is expected to reduce UK tariffs on Indian imports such as clothing, footwear, seafood, and jewellery, while cutting Indian tariffs on high-value UK exports including whisky, gin, cars, aerospace components, cosmetics and processed foods.

With India projected to become the world’s third-largest economy within a few years, this agreement positions the UK to take advantage of a rapidly expanding consumer base and evolving supply chains.

Looking Ahead
On 20 May, the Chancellor of the Exchequer confirmed that the UK’s next trade priority is reaching agreements with Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. Discussions are already underway in sectors including food and drink, renewable energy and manufacturing, with the UK also seeking to attract further inward investment from the region. However, the UK has ruled out trade negotiations with China for the foreseeable future.

How PSP Worldwide Logistics Can Help
These agreements signal a positive shift in the UK’s global trade environment, opening new doors while reducing cost and complexity in existing corridors. Whether you are exporting to high-growth markets like India, scaling up EU shipments, or adjusting supply chains in response to changing US tariffs, PSP Worldwide Logistics is here to help you make the most of these new opportunities.

EMAIL Colin Redman to learn how we can support your global trade ambitions and simplify your journey through this evolving landscape.