British government officials have modified protocols for handling trade-related documents, raising their classification level to “secret” to prevent sensitive information from reaching the United States. These measures were introduced in response to new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration, which include a 10% levy on general goods and a 25% duty on cars and steel from the UK, reports the Baltimore Chronicle with reference to FBC.net.ua.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, aiming to secure a trade deal with the US, refrains from symmetrical retaliatory measures and instead offers concessions in areas such as digital taxation and agriculture. Despite this, concerns are mounting over the potential impact of the “America First” policy on British industries.
British companies, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, have been advised to limit information sharing. Similar precautions are being taken by the European Commission, whose officials use temporary phones while in the US.
Despite rising tensions, US Vice President JD Vance has expressed hope for reaching a mutually beneficial trade agreement with the UK, emphasizing the cultural and strategic closeness between the two countries.
We previously wrote about how EU and US stock markets rose after Trump suspended tariffs.