President Trump is more unpredictable than ever. That’s hurting trade just as much as the special relationship. Exporters tell The Grocer the US is becoming a less attractive partner in the face of ongoing tantrums and tariffs. The threat of further disruption is especially strong as Trump looks for political leverage to strongarm allies into war with Iran.

By contrast, China is presenting itself as a more stable partner. Both the UK government and British businesses are eyeing the market more seriously.

“For a decade, there’s been a lack of serious engagement to capitalise on the opportunity of a better relationship with China,” said business and trade secretary Peter Kyle ahead of Keir Starmer’s visit to Beijing in January. “We want to see trade flourish between us.”