Trump tariff threat sparks jobs warning from Welsh First Minister
The First Minister of Wales has warned that potential new US tariffs could place Welsh jobs and businesses under added pressure.
Eluned Morgan has written to the Prime Minister urging him to stand firm following comments by Donald Trump, who has threatened to increase tariffs unless the UK supports the United States in seeking to purchase Greenland.
In a letter to Keir Starmer, the First Minister said Wales could be disproportionately affected by any additional tariffs because of its trading relationship with the US.
Welsh Government figures show that in the year ending September 2025, Welsh goods exports to the United States, excluding oil products, were valued at £2.1bn. Around a third of Welsh exporters, more than 1,000 businesses, currently send goods to the US.
Goods make up a larger share of Welsh exports to the US than elsewhere in the UK. Some 59 per cent of Welsh exports to the US are goods, compared with 32 per cent for the UK overall.
Eluned Morgan said: “People across Wales are already struggling with the cost of living – increased tariffs will only put further pressure on Welsh businesses.
“I have written to Sir Keir Starmer setting out that Wales could be disproportionately affected by additional tariffs, which would be a challenge for many Welsh businesses.
“Threatening the use of tariffs is an unacceptable and aggressive act from a country we consider a friend and ally. Welsh jobs are on the line and as First Minister I will defend them to the hilt.
“I recognise the importance of the US to the Welsh economy – there are around 330 US-based companies in Wales, employing just over 40,000 people. But there comes a point where principle must be respected. It is the people of Greenland and Denmark who should be determining the future of the island, and international law must be upheld.
“We cannot continue to be threatened with more tariffs by Donald Trump. At this critical moment, we must stand by our allies and the values we hold dear.”
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