USTR formalizes U.S.-UK tariff roadmap: three speeds of tariff reduction and origin certification starting June 1

On May 15, 2026, the USTR published the tariff roadmap for the U.S.-UK framework trade agreement, following the political announcement made on May 8. The document operationalizes that agreement through three sector-differentiated tariff reduction tracks, replacing a one-size-fits-all approach with a structure that reflects the political sensitivity of each industry: immediate elimination for pharmaceuticals and industrial inputs; phased reduction over three years for vehicles and auto parts; and tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) for sensitive agricultural goods.

Separately, Section 232 tariffs on UK steel and aluminum would be suspended to 0% within an annual quota of 2.5 million metric tons, articulated with the existing exclusion mechanisms under Section 232. The document also introduces new origin certification requirements for accessing agreement benefits, with a phased entry into force starting June 1, 2026.