By Scout Nelson
U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Chris Coons have reintroduced the Undertaking Negotiations on Investment and Trade for Economic Dynamism (UNITED) Act, aiming to establish a trade agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom.
This legislation would create new export opportunities, support critical supply chains, and enhance economic growth for both nations. It also ensures that Congress is actively involved in shaping the agreement to align with national trade priorities. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Adrian Smith and Jim Himes.
The reintroduction of the bill coincides with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Washington for discussions with the U.S. administration. Advocates of the bill emphasize that strengthening trade ties with the UK would benefit various industries, including agriculture, aerospace, and digital trade.
Senator Moran highlighted that closer economic collaboration with the UK would lower consumer costs, boost production, and expand market access for American businesses. Senator Coons echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that a well-structured trade agreement would reinforce economic and strategic interests while promoting high standards in key areas such as climate policies, labor protections, and intellectual property rights.
"There’s no better way to strengthen ties with a historic partner like the United Kingdom than coming together to develop a comprehensive trade agreement," said Rep. Smith. “In 2022, I had the opportunity to lead a bipartisan congressional delegation to the UK where I saw firsthand the value such an agreement holds for both our countries. In his first term, President Trump initiated trade talks with the UK and more broadly demonstrated his ability to negotiate deals of mutual benefit. Congress should do everything possible to keep pace and empower his vigorous engagement. The UNITED Act is a bipartisan effort to move into the future of rules-based trade relations by promoting expanded access to international markets eager for our products and safeguarding American innovation. I thank Representative Himes and Senators Moran and Coons for their cooperation on this legislation."
“Strong trade partners are critical to a prosperous economy—creating jobs, increasing opportunities for businesses, and bringing down costs for consumers,” said Rep. Himes. “The UNITED Act builds on our existing special relationship with the United Kingdom and paves the way for a new, comprehensive free trade agreement.”
The UNITED Act follows the model set by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which established high standards for fair trade. Lawmakers are pushing for similar benchmarks in negotiations with the UK to ensure that American workers and businesses remain competitive in the global market.
If enacted, the UNITED Act would lay the foundation for a comprehensive U.S.-UK trade deal, promoting economic stability and expanding opportunities for businesses on both sides.
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Categories: Kansas, Business