In May 2025, the UK concluded new trade agreements with the European Union (May 19), United States (May 8) and India (May 6), with implications for US importers and exporters.
As global trade lanes are redrawn, US importers and exporters are adjusting to new routes, regulations and customer demands. Trade agreements that alter the cost, speed and predictability of cross-border flows can influence routing decisions, sourcing strategies, and regional distribution models.
UK–US: Progress on Tariffs, with Sector-Specific Impact
The most directly relevant of these agreements is the UK–US trade deal announced on May 8. While not a comprehensive free trade agreement, it includes targeted tariff reductions that benefit a number of high-value US export categories.
Notably, the UK has removed its 20% tariff on US beef and increased the quota for beef imports by 1200%, presenting a timely growth opportunity for American producers and exporters. Importantly, UK food safety and standards have not been compromised, meaning that products entering the UK must still meet the country’s regulatory requirements.
On the industrial side, while the deal focused more heavily on UK-origin exports like steel, aluminium and cars, it lays the groundwork for deeper trade collaboration that may support transatlantic industrial supply chains — particularly for businesses trading in machinery, engineered components, and hazardous goods.
That said, the US’s 10% blanket import tariff remains in place for most UK goods, and key areas such as clothing and footwear remain under review. For eCommerce merchants and retailers, further clarity is expected in the coming weeks.
UK–EU: Easier Flows for Perishables and Regulatory Goods
The UK and EU’s updated agreement has reduced friction for cross-border shipments of animal and plant products, effectively removing most routine border checks. While this change is primarily a win for UK and EU producers, it also supports US food exporters and multinational brands routing goods through the UK or Ireland for access to European markets.
The simplification of regulatory procedures also creates a more stable operating environment for global shippers using UK-EU hubs as part of their international logistics strategy.
UK–India: Longer-Term Strategic Opportunities
The UK’s new bilateral trade deal with India may not have an immediate impact on US traders, but it is highly relevant to global supply chain planners.
By lowering UK tariffs on Indian-made goods, including clothing, footwear, seafood and jewellery the agreement could shift sourcing dynamics across the fashion, eCommerce and food sectors, especially for global brands that serve both UK and US markets. In the longer term, UK companies may also increase exports of premium consumer goods and industrial products to India, creating more transatlantic cargo flows.
Global Forwarding: Helping You Stay Ahead
With offices and customs experts across the United States, United Kingdom and Ireland, and a fully integrated global network, Global Forwarding (a Hecny Group company) is well-positioned to help US businesses navigate the impact of these evolving trade agreements.
- Expert guidance on customs, trade documentation and compliance
- Integrated freight and logistics solutions across key global corridors
- Support for supply chain optimisation as sourcing and routing strategies evolve
Let’s work together to ensure your business remains competitive, compliant and agile in today’s fast-changing trade environment. Contact Global Forwarding today to learn more.
