Businesses say predictability is vital as global trade conditions grow more volatil
Logistics businesses are demanding urgent clarity after reports that the United States could impose a 15% global tariff in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling on previous trade measures.
Industry leaders have warned that any shift in US tariff policy would carry serious implications for British exporters, given the scale of trade between the two nations.
Responding to the reports, James Mills, head of trade policy at Logistics UK, said the US remains “the UK’s largest single-country trading partner and accounts for around one sixth of all UK exports”.
He added: “Any changes to tariff arrangements matter significantly for British businesses.”
Companies now require “urgent clarity” on how the proposed 15% levy would operate in practice, he said, as well as confirmation that “previously agreed sector arrangements will be honoured”.
The US market plays a critical role in supporting UK employment, with exports to America underpinning nearly one million jobs.
“Exports to the United States support nearly one million UK jobs, making stability in this relationship vital,” Mr Mills said.
He warned that in an increasingly uncertain global climate, predictability is essential for trade-led growth.
“In a more volatile global environment, trade-led growth depends on predictability and on keeping trade as open, efficient and frictionless as possible,” he said.
“The UK grows when it trades.”
Logistics UK, one of the country’s largest business groups, represents companies across the supply chain, including road, rail, air and maritime operators, as well as retailers and manufacturers reliant on freight services.
The organisation argues that at a time of rapid change — driven by decarbonisation, technological advancement and wider geopolitical disruption — maintaining efficient cross-border trade is more important than ever for the UK economy.