Companies in Northern Ireland are warning of potential multimillion-pound losses if the European Union takes retaliatory measures against the tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
According to them, the current system for tariff compensation is inadequate and “unfit for purpose.” Northern Ireland, being part of both the British and European markets, finds itself in a uniquely vulnerable position. In 2023, the region imported goods worth £753 million from the U.S. If the EU imposes retaliatory tariffs, local businesses may be forced to cover significant additional costs.
Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly stated that the tariff reimbursement mechanism “does not meet the needs of businesses.” Industry representatives warn that due to bureaucratic difficulties, many companies are abandoning attempts to reclaim the money.
While the EU is developing retaliatory measures in response to Trump’s policies, Keir Starmer’s government has stated that it intends to act “calmly and thoughtfully.” Meanwhile, Northern Irish entrepreneurs are demanding concrete steps and compensation to avoid becoming victims of international trade tensions.
