The UK has warned that “nothing is off the table” if the US moves ahead with a new 15% global tariff, though Downing Street stressed that “no one wants a trade war.”
The warning comes after Donald Trump announced that, starting Tuesday, the US would impose a 15% tariff on imports from all countries under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act. The move follows last week’s 6–3 ruling by the Supreme Court, which struck down most of Trump’s earlier tariffs introduced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
What changes — and what doesn’t
The UK government said the majority of its existing sector-specific deals with the US are not expected to change, including tariffs covering: Cars, Steel and aluminium, Pharmaceuticals, Aerospace
These sectors account for the majority of UK exports to the US.
However, goods outside those negotiated categories would face the new 15% rate if implemented.
Trump initially announced a 10% replacement tariff after the court ruling, then raised it to 15% over the weekend. Section 122 tariffs are temporary and expire after 150 days unless Congress extends them. (More about: Trump Says He Will Raise Global Tariff to 15%)
Why the UK could be hit harder
Analysis from Global Trade Alert suggests the UK could be among the worst-affected countries. Britain had previously negotiated a 10% tariff arrangement with Washington, meaning a universal 15% rate would leave it worse off relative to some countries that already faced higher duties.
By contrast, countries such as China and Brazil, which were already under steeper tariff regimes, may see less relative change under a flat global rate.
EU puts deal on hold
The European Union has put its own US trade deal “on hold until further notice,” citing legal uncertainty after the court decision.
Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s trade committee, said the situation is “more uncertain than ever” and called for legal clarity before proceeding further.
Trump responded on social media that countries attempting to “play games” over the ruling could face even higher tariffs.
UK response: talks ongoing
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said he had raised concerns directly with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, emphasizing the need to honor existing agreements.
The prime minister’s spokesman described the situation as “evolving” and confirmed discussions are continuing “at all levels.”
Business reaction
Industry groups are calling for urgent clarity.
Andy Haldane, president of the British Chambers of Commerce, said the UK could “sit toward the bottom of the league table” of US trading partners if the 15% tariff takes effect.
Manufacturers warned that exporters need immediate guidance on how shipments will be treated at US ports, as uncertainty itself can disrupt contracts and pricing.
The Supreme Court ruling reshaped US tariff policy, but it did not end trade tensions. Instead, it has introduced a temporary 15% global tariff framework that leaves allies like the UK reassessing their position, while trying to avoid a wider trade conflict.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
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