During a three-day visit to Washington, D.C., for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Spring Meetings, the British chancellor offered fresh insight into the U.K. government’s priorities as it seeks to secure a trade agreement with the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking ahead of a scheduled meeting on Friday with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, the chancellor outlined the sectors Britain is focusing on in its negotiations.
Earlier this month, Trump imposed a 25 percent tariff on imported cars, a move that could significantly impact U.K. automobile exports. Additional tariffs on pharmaceuticals—a vital British industry—are reportedly under consideration.
Despite the urgency, the chancellor emphasized that securing a quality agreement is more important than reaching a quick deal. “U.K. officials are working flat out to achieve a deal,” said Chancellor Reeves, “but the most important thing is we get the right deal for Britain, not a rush deal.”
‘Huge Opportunities’ in Tech
Reeves underscored the central role technology will play in any future trade arrangement, describing the tech sector as offering “huge opportunities” for collaboration between the U.K. and U.S.
“There’s already substantial U.S. investment flowing into the U.K., making it the top investment destination for many American businesses,” she noted. “Just as we have a strong defense and security alliance, there’s real potential to build a deeper technology partnership—leveraging our shared strengths in scientific research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.”
She added that the U.K.’s world-class research institutions and thriving startup ecosystem create a solid foundation for a future-forward economic alliance grounded in technological advancement.
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