KATE Forbes has said that Donald Trump's tariffs will clearly impact Scottish businesses given the importance of the US as an export market.
Trump has slapped a 10% tariff on US imports of UK goods as he confirmed sweeping import levies on countries across the world, hailing America’s “declaration of economic independence”.
“We do not believe unilateral measures by the US are the answer and we are concerned about the negative impact of trade barriers on the Scottish economy," the Deputy First Minister said.
“We urge the US and all parties to come together and work towards mutually beneficial resolutions.
“We greatly value the strong social, cultural and economic ties Scotland shares with the US and we will work to ensure these continue to flourish.”
Scottish businesses, including the whisky and salmon industry, have already expressed their disappointment with the tariffs.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, meanwhile, has also told business chiefs that “clearly, there will be an economic impact” from the tariffs, but the Government would respond with “cool and calm heads”.
Starmer told business chiefs in Downing Street that the US president “acted for his country, and that is his mandate.
“Today, I will act in Britain’s interests with mine.”
He said the UK was “prepared” and that “one of the great strengths of this nation is our ability to keep a cool head”.
The Business Secretary said tariffs on the UK are a “disappointment” and “a challenge”, but that the UK is in a “better position than a lot of other countries from what was announced last night, but I was still disappointed.”
A timeline for the UK to seal an economic deal to mitigate tariffs is “largely in the gift of the US”, Jonathan Reynolds told Times Radio.
