Trump Teases ‘Major’ UK Trade Deal Amid Rising Global Tensions

US President hints at breakthrough agreement with Britain, while maintaining steep tariffs on key global partners

In a high-stakes post on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump has promised to unveil a "major trade deal" with a "highly respected country" during a Thursday press conference at the White House. According to a report from the New York Times, that country is expected to be the United Kingdom.

A Big Announcement on the Horizon

Trump's message was characteristically bold:

“Big News Conference tomorrow morning at 10:00 A.M., The Oval Office, concerning a MAJOR TRADE DEAL WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF A BIG, AND HIGHLY RESPECTED, COUNTRY. THE FIRST OF MANY!!!”

The New York Times report, citing three sources close to the negotiations, identified Britain as the likely partner in the agreement, though the final terms remain unclear. The UK and US have been in ongoing talks surrounding tariff reductions and increased market access for goods on both sides of the Atlantic.

What’s in the Deal?

While details of the agreement are still under wraps, discussions have focused on reciprocal tariff cuts, market liberalisation, and frameworks for future trade expansion. However, it’s not yet known whether Thursday’s announcement will be a fully finalised deal or a preliminary framework for further negotiation.

This would mark the first major trade pact under Trump’s aggressive “reciprocal tariff” regime introduced in April. He had postponed implementation of the new duties by 90 days to encourage nations to come to the negotiating table—a tactic that appears to be bearing fruit with Britain.

Where Does the UK Stand in Trump’s Trade War?

Although the UK wasn’t directly targeted by Trump’s initial tariff threats—largely because it imports more from the US than it exports—the country still faces a range of duties. These include a 10% universal tariff and more severe sector-specific levies such as 25% tariffs on steel, aluminium, and car imports.

Despite expectations of a positive outcome, the NYT reported that Trump’s administration is not currently planning to lift the 10% blanket tariff as part of this deal, suggesting that the UK will still face hurdles even as it gains preferred access to American markets.

China Still in the Crosshairs

Trump’s announcement comes just as US-China trade tensions are heating up. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is expected to meet Chinese officials in Switzerland later this week, but hopes of a deal remain slim. Trump has reiterated his refusal to roll back the towering 145% tariffs currently imposed on Chinese imports—a non-negotiable demand from Beijing.

Conclusion: A Strategic Win for Post-Brexit Britain?

If confirmed, a UK-US trade deal would represent a major diplomatic win for Downing Street—especially in the post-Brexit era where Britain is seeking to reassert its position on the global stage. For Trump, it would mark a rare example of successful deal-making amid a turbulent trade agenda.

However, without clear tariff relief and firm implementation details, Thursday’s announcement could prove more symbolic than substantive. All eyes now turn to the White House, where the future of UK-US economic relations may be set in motion.

Sources: (Investing.com, Reuters)