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Trump Hints at Possible Trade Relief for Britain Amid Rising Tensions with EU Customs Duties

Economy News – Baghdad

US President Donald Trump has remarked that while Britain currently operates “outside the acceptable framework” concerning trade, he anticipates that it might be possible to avoid imposing customs duties on the nation. He expressed that a resolution to this trade imbalance is attainable.

Earlier this week, Trump instituted high customs duties on Mexico, Canada, and China, indicating that similar measures “will definitely happen” with the European Union. This development has incited concerns about an escalatory trade war that could derail global economic growth and increase consumer costs.

In response to inquiries about potential customs duties on Britain, Trump stated, “We will see how things unfold. It may happen with them, but it will certainly happen with the European Union. I can assure you of that.”

Upon returning to Washington from the St. Ajo Resort in Florida, he remarked, “Britain is far outside the acceptable framework… We will see… However, the European Union is completely within acceptable parameters. Britain is outside that framework, but I believe a solution can be reached. The practices of the European Union are quite concerning.”

A spokesperson for the British government responded to Trump’s comments, asserting that the UK maintains “fair and balanced” trade relations with the United States.

The spokesman added, “The United States is an essential ally and one of our closest trade partners. Our trade relationship is fair and balanced, benefiting both parties.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his ministers have received commendations from Trump since his reelection, highlighting the significance of Britain’s imports from the United States in efforts to avoid the imposition of customs duties, particularly as the UK grapples with economic growth challenges.

Starmer noted at the beginning of the week, “It is still early, and what I hope to see is robust commercial relations. In our discussions, President Trump and I have focused on this aspect.”

The United States stands as the largest single-country trade partner for Britain, though the European Union as a bloc surpasses it. Importantly, less than one-third of the trade at risk for customs duties pertains to goods, the majority consisting of services.

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