Chamber calls for continuing US negotiations as President Trump is set to announcement new import tariffs

East Midlands Chamber has given its reaction as President Trump prepares to unveil a new wave of “Liberation Day” tariffs, as named by the White House, on items brought into the US.

The extent of the charges, countries affected and when they might be implemented is expected to become clear after an announcement from the US President on 2nd April.

East Midlands Chamber Head of International Trade Lucy Granger said: “Ultimately the duties that President Trump is imposing will affect businesses in America as well as elsewhere, including the UK. It will make their imported goods cost more. However, that can have a negative impact on UK businesses as it makes their products harder to sell in that market by essentially increasing the cost.

“For exporters, this comes at a critical time, only days after the arrival of new tax burdens, which our members tell us will protract and stifle investment and the creation of new jobs.

“The UK government needs to continue conversations with the US at pace. They need to make sure they’re getting the best for businesses within the East Midlands and the UK, so that the US is a viable market that we can continue to trade with.”