Trump’s latest tariffs put UK at disadvantage to EU, say experts
📰 source: theguardian_business · 💼 business
trump's latest round of tariffs, announced late thursday and aimed at countries linked to forced labour, puts uk businesses at a disadvantage against the eu even though the uk's headline 10% tariff remains unchanged. the eu's previous 15% blanket tariff is reduced to 10%, matching the uk's rate and giving the bloc an edge in sectors like clothing, bikes, and chemicals. however, a separate deal cuts us tariffs on scottish whisky to zero, giving the uk an advantage over irish and french spirits rivals. the first shipment of tariff-free whisky leaves in 48 hours. trade experts note that a uk knitted jumper now faces 22.5% tariffs (12.5% base + 10% epd) while an eu jumper pays just 10%. the gmb union called the tariffs 'ill-judged and potentially catastrophic.' the uk government insists there is no negative change, while the eu says it disagreed with the forced labour investigation.
why it matters: uk loses tariff parity with eu in several sectors despite unchanged headline rate, while whisky deal highlights selective benefits.
source: theguardian_business
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