US Trade Representative criticizes UK for prioritizing EU over US trade

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has expressed frustration that the United Kingdom is prioritizing its relationship with the European Union over expanding trade ties with the United States. Speaking to the Financial Times, Greer stated that despite the regulatory freedom granted by Brexit, London has not utilized this independence to adopt American standards for goods and agricultural products.

Greer noted that when questioned about liberalizing trade to accept US-standard products, British officials reportedly respond that they must ‘wait and see what the EU says about it.’ This stance is viewed by the USTR as a significant obstacle to deepening bilateral commercial ties.

In contrast, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has advocated for closer cooperation with the EU, citing Brexit's role in sluggish economic growth. This shift toward European alignment follows a visit from French President Emmanuel Macron, who expressed openness to advancing a UK-EU reset. A critical summit between the UK and the EU is expected before the end of the year to address these evolving relations.