The United Kingdom’s trade with the United States has been significantly impacted by tariffs imposed by the administration of Donald Trump, according to new data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The figures show that British goods exports to the United States, excluding precious metals, dropped by £1.5 billion (about $2.03 billion) in April 2025—a sharp decline of 24.7 percent following the introduction of tariffs. Export levels have remained subdued since then, reflecting continued pressure on trade flows.

The automotive sector has been particularly affected. UK car exports to the US have fallen noticeably and have not recovered to pre-tariff levels. The decline highlights the sensitivity of manufacturing sectors to trade barriers and shifting policy environments.

At the same time, imports from the United States have outpaced UK exports for three consecutive months since December 2025, indicating a widening trade imbalance. Despite these challenges, the US continues to be the UK’s largest goods export destination and its third-largest source of imports.

Since taking office in January 2025, the Trump administration has introduced a series of tariffs, including a broad 10 percent levy on most British imports announced in April. However, a partial agreement reached in May 2025 brought limited relief by reducing tariffs on certain UK car exports and lifting duties on steel and aluminium, subject to supply chain security conditions.

The developments have also drawn attention in Europe. The European Union has indicated it may respond if US measures diverge from previously agreed trade commitments. Officials warned that all options remain open to safeguard EU interests, especially after renewed US threats to raise tariffs on European vehicles.

The evolving trade landscape underscores growing uncertainty in transatlantic economic relations.