The UK economy contracted by 0.3% in April, exceeding economists' predictions, primarily due to President Trump's global trade tariffs. This resulted in a significant drop in UK exports to the US, the largest monthly fall on record. Industrial production and services were particularly affected, although construction output grew. Despite a 10% reciprocal tariff, the UK fared better than the EU, which faced a 20% levy. A subsequent US-UK trade deal mitigated the long-term impact.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.