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US tariffs adjustments shift UK competitiveness versus EU, experts say
Even as the overall UK tariff level is unchanged at 10%, sectors not covered by the Turnberry deal face a higher effective EU tariff, while Scottish whisky tariffs are set to fall to zero.
The Guardian Business reports that a new round of US tariff measures leaves the headline levy for UK goods unchanged, but could disadvantage UK businesses versus the EU in areas not covered by a prior tariff deal.
According to the outlet, the EU’s previous near blanket tariff of 15% is reduced to 10% under the new approach, which matches the UK’s 10% tariff for sectors covered in the UK’s economic prosperity deal, leaving EU at an advantage for non specified categories such as bikes, clothing, chemicals, beverages, and gifts.
The article also says a separate development is set to boost Scottish spirits exports, with US tariffs on Scottish whisky expected to be reduced to zero and the first tariff free shipment planned to depart within 48 hours.
Business secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the shipment underscores why trade deals with major partners matter, while Douglas Alexander called the move a welcome day for Scotland’s spirits sector.