The US–UK Trade Deal: Finally, some tariff relief
After years of handshakes, summits, and stalled negotiations, the US and UK have finally signed off on the “Economic Prosperity Deal”.
It’s not a full-blown free trade agreement, but it’s a step forward. Tariffs on UK-made cars entering the US are dropping from 27.5% to 10% (for up to 100,000 units), steel and aluminium tariffs are scrapped, and there’s a big push to simplify digital trade and cut the red tape for cross-border commerce.
If you’re sourcing from or selling into either market, this could mean better margins, faster clearances, and fewer compliance headaches. That said, the deal has its quirks, and not every product category benefits equally. The fine print matters.
Meanwhile… what if the US and Iran go to war?
Here’s the nightmare scenario no one wants but everyone should be ready for. If tensions escalate into full conflict, especially in the Strait of Hormuz, we’re looking at a global supply chain squeeze.
Up to 30% of the world’s oil flows through that narrow waterway. If it's blocked or becomes a war zone, oil prices could surge past $100 a barrel, shipping times could stretch by weeks, and freight costs could spike by millions per voyage.
It wouldn’t just hit fuel costs. Expect container delays, rerouted vessels, and ripple effects on raw material pricing, production schedules, and inventory planning.
In short, you could be dealing with a supply chain migraine, just as you’re getting used to post-pandemic normality.
What should you do now?
In this week’s full breakdown, I’m sharing:
Don’t wait for the headlines to hit your bottom line.
Read the full analysis and get ahead of the next supply chain curve.
[Click here to read the full newsletter]
💡 Top Sourcing Tip of the Week:
When you’re getting shipping quotes from freight forwarders or suppliers, don’t just look at the bottom-line price—look under the hood. Quotes can vary wildly depending on what's included (or not). Ask these key questions:
Is this port-to-port or door-to-door?
Does it include customs clearance, duties, and taxes?
Are there any hidden surcharges (like GRI, fuel adjustment, or peak season fees)?
How many trans-shipment points are there (which could delay delivery)?
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