The United Kingdom has taken a step toward potential trade retaliation against the United States, following the imposition of tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds informed Parliament on Thursday that a list of American products has been compiled, which may face import duties if current trade tensions escalate.

Addressing Members of Parliament, Reynolds emphasized the government's preference for diplomacy and economic cooperation. “We still believe a negotiated agreement with the United States, rooted in our shared strengths, is the best path to economic security for working people,” he stated. However, he warned that the UK retains the right to act unilaterally if no such deal emerges.

To ensure transparency and public engagement, Reynolds announced the launch of a four-week consultation period, running through May 1. During this period, British businesses and stakeholders are invited to submit feedback and suggest which U.S. goods should be targeted by any reciprocal tariffs. The move is designed to give industries a voice in shaping the UK's trade response and ensure that any actions taken align with national economic interests.

The consultation process marks a significant moment in transatlantic trade relations, with both nations grappling over tariff policies and their economic impacts. While the UK remains committed to finding a constructive resolution, the proactive preparation of a tariff list indicates growing concern over the direction of U.S. trade policy under President Trump’s administration.

The development follows a pattern of escalating trade measures that have reverberated across multiple sectors. As the deadline for consultation approaches, businesses and political observers alike will be closely monitoring the UK government’s decisions, particularly if talks with the United States fail to yield results.

Reynolds reiterated that any final decision would prioritize the well-being of UK workers and industries, adding that while retaliation is not the preferred course, it remains a viable option to protect the country’s economic stability and fairness in trade.