Story perspectives

UK Eyes Tariff-Free Trade with EU Amid US Pressure

1/23/2025

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Šefcovic Eases Trade

The EU's trade chief, Maroš Šefcovic, has opened the door for the UK to join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) agreement, promising a smoother flow of goods without tariffs. While the UK government treads carefully, businesses are eager for PEM to ease trade hurdles. Meanwhile, the US is pushing for a trade deal, adding to the UK's post-Brexit challenges.

Center

EU Officials Forge Alliances

In a bold move against President Trump's tariff threats, EU officials, led by Ursula von der Leyen, are forging new trade alliances with India and Mexico. As the EU aims to shield itself from potential US losses, the UK grapples with the dilemma of joining these agreements, fearing they could undermine the freedoms gained from Brexit amidst Trump's escalating trade aggression.

History

Historical Context

The UK's potential entry into the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) agreement reflects ongoing trade adjustments post-Brexit. Historically, after leaving the EU in January 2020, the UK faced significant trade barriers. The 2020 EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement aimed to mitigate these challenges, yet ongoing negotiations reveal the complexities of redefining trade relationships in a shifting global landscape, reminiscent of past trade realignments following major geopolitical changes.

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Šefcovic Eases Trade

The EU's trade chief, Maroš Šefcovic, has opened the door for the UK to join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) agreement, promising a smoother flow of goods without tariffs. While the UK government treads carefully, businesses are eager for PEM to ease trade hurdles. Meanwhile, the US is pushing for a trade deal, adding to the UK's post-Brexit challenges.

1 / 3