The UK Government will unveil a new trade plan designed to support exporters and shield domestic industries from the impact of global market disruption, including recent US import tariffs.
Announced at the London British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) conference, the strategy aims to remove barriers for UK firms selling overseas while tightening trade defences to counter the threat of cheap imports, particularly in vulnerable sectors like steel and automotive.
Concerns have been raised that cars and steel initially bound for the US may be redirected to the UK following President Trump’s decision to reintroduce tariffs. These tariffs make it significantly more expensive for international firms to sell into the American market, prompting fears of market oversupply in the UK.
Unlike the EU, the UK has not imposed high tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles. Existing protections against cheap steel imports are also set to expire in 2026, leaving domestic producers at risk of being undercut.
The new plan sets out measures to boost exports, particularly services, through increased financial support and explicit guidance on international trade rules. However, a key focus remains defence: protecting UK industries from unfair competition.
The Government will also highlight recent progress in securing a long-negotiated free trade agreement with India and improving trading terms with the EU.
In a notable development, the UK has been the first country to agree to improved tariff terms with the Trump administration since his return to office.
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