UK Trade Sees Strong Start in 2025 Amid Incoming US Tariffs

Exports to US and EU Surge as Businesses Move Quickly Ahead of Tariff Wave

 

UK trade showed resilience in early 2025, with a notable pre-tariff surge in exports, particularly to the United States and the European Union, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

UK exports to the US jumped 13.6% in Q1 compared to the same period in 2024 and rose 16% compared to the previous quarter. This spike reflects companies accelerating shipments before US tariffs on UK goods—including steel, aluminium, and related products—took effect in April.

Goods exports overall increased by 2.9% in March, driven by a 4.1% rise in shipments to the EU. In value terms, UK goods exports to the US soared by 25% in Q1, underlining the urgency felt by businesses navigating the new tariff environment.

Meanwhile, UK services exports continued their steady momentum, growing by 0.5% in March.

Trade experts are cautiously optimistic, with hopes for a renewed EU trade relationship and potential tariff relief for US-bound goods. With growing opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region, policymakers are urged to support UK exporters to maintain this positive momentum.

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Source – British Chambers of Commerce