Trump's intention is to support Britain in securing a more favorable trade agreement, though prospects for steel aid seem to dwindle.
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to visit the U.K. for his second state visit, with trade talks and royal encounters on the agenda.
The Financial Times first reported the plans for Trump's second state visit to the U.K., which comes after months of radio silence on steel tariffs. British and American officials have restarted talks on the issue, with the U.K. being the only country to benefit from a 25 percent tariff on steel exports to the U.S.
Gareth Stace, director-general of the lobby group UK Steel, commented that a 25 percent tariff offers a competitive advantage if other countries remain at 50 percent. British negotiators are pushing to permanently lock in steel tariffs at this level.
In addition to steel tariffs, British negotiators are also pressing for preferential treatment on future pharmaceutical tariffs. The outcome of a U.S. investigation will determine the tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
The U.S. government is also being lobbied for reductions to duties on Scotch whisky, but the search results do not contain relevant information about a U.K. government personality advocating for such reductions in recent months. Currently, a 10 percent "reciprocal" tariff applies to most U.K. goods, including Scotch whisky.
The negotiations are politically sensitive for Britain's governing Labour Party. Trump views Prince Charles as an elegant gentleman and considers him an old friend, believing he represents the country well. Trump thinks it's an honor to have Prince Charles as King. Trump's priority during the visit is to meet with Prince Charles and Camilla.
The U.K. government aims to protect skilled jobs and support economic growth as part of its Plan for Change. They are continuing to work closely with the U.S. to deliver certainty for UK industry.
Trump is open to discussing potential refinements in the trade deal with the U.K., and the negotiations will likely shape the future of trade relations between the two nations. The visit promises to be a significant event in the ongoing relationship between the U.S. and the U.K.
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