The United States has collected a staggering $1.36 billion in tariffs on British exports during just four months, representing a six-fold increase compared to the same period last year. This dramatic surge highlights the profound impact of President Trump’s trade policies on UK manufacturers and exporters.
US Tariffs on British Goods Reach Record Levels
According to recent data from the US International Trade Commission, American importers paid significantly higher duties on British products between April and July. Surprisingly, these figures exceed tariffs collected on French and Spanish goods despite concessions negotiated under the UK-US trade agreement that took effect in late June. Consequently, British exports now face the 12th-highest tariff level among all trading partners.
Comparative Analysis of Trade Impacts
The statistics reveal striking disparities in tariff treatment. While Spain faced $615 million in duties and France $1.35 billion during the same period, the UK’s $1.36 billion burden stands out dramatically. Furthermore, this represents a massive jump from the $211 million collected during the equivalent timeframe in 2024. The current 10% tariff rate on UK goods, though lower than the 15% imposed on EU exports since August 7th, continues to strain British exporters.
Government Response and Trade Negotiations
A government spokesperson emphasized that Britain secured preferential treatment in key sectors. “The UK was the first country to agree a deal with the US on key sectors,” the official stated. “We secured the lowest tariffs of any country on autos and steel and have received one of the lowest reciprocal tariff rates globally.” However, the data suggests that even with these concessions, British businesses face substantial challenges.
Broader US Tariff Strategy and Global Impact
The US tariff collection has increased dramatically across all trading partners. Imports from China generated $36 billion in duties during the April-July period—more than double the previous year’s total. Mexico followed with $7.6 billion and Japan with $6.5 billion. The Peterson Institute for International Economics estimates total US tariff revenue reached approximately $122 billion between January and July this year.
Economic Implications and Future Projections
Analysts express concern about the long-term effects of these escalating tariffs. Sam Lowe, partner at Flint Global, warns that while tariff revenues may continue climbing short-term, they risk suppressing overall trade volumes. “You could expect tariff revenue to continue growing,” Lowe explains, “but volumes either grow slower or fall because the tariff itself impacts trade amounts.”
Sector-Specific Impacts and UK Exposure
Most US tariff revenue comes from industrial intermediates ($40 billion) and consumer goods ($39 billion), with capital goods and raw materials less affected. For UK exporters specifically, the latest data underscores their continued vulnerability to Trump’s trade strategy despite negotiated concessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much have US tariffs on British goods increased?
US tariffs on British goods increased six-fold to $1.36 billion during April-July compared to the same period last year.
How do UK tariff rates compare to EU rates?
UK goods face a 10% tariff rate, while EU exports face 15% tariffs since August 7th.
Which countries face the highest US tariffs?
China faces the highest tariffs at $36 billion, followed by Mexico ($7.6 billion) and Japan ($6.5 billion).
What sectors are most affected by US tariffs?
Industrial intermediates and consumer goods account for most tariff revenue at $40 billion and $39 billion respectively.
How does the UK-US trade deal affect tariffs?
The deal secured lower rates for key UK exports like autos and steel, but overall tariff impacts remain significant.
What are the long-term implications of these tariffs?
Analysts warn that while tariff revenue may increase short-term, trade volumes could eventually decline due to the additional costs.
