Jaguar Land Rover resumes US shipments after tariff pause
London’s Times reported on Saturday that Jaguar Land Rover continued shipments of cars to the United States after being halted due to US President Donald Trump’s taxes.
Exports Resume After Month-Long Suspension
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the British luxury carmaker owned by India’s Tata Motors, has restarted exports to the United States following a temporary pause due to newly imposed US tariffs. According to The Times of London, the first shipment of vehicles destined for the US left the UK on Wednesday, marking the company’s return to one of its most critical markets.
In April, JLR announced a suspension of U.S.-bound shipments to evaluate the financial impact of a 25% tariff introduced by President Donald Trump on all imported cars and light trucks, effective April 3. The tariff prompted concern among automakers, particularly those heavily reliant on the American market.
Trump’s Executive Order Offers Partial Relief
President Trump later signaled efforts to soften the blow of the tariff by issuing an executive order aimed at providing some relief. The plan includes a system of tax credits and exemptions on parts and raw materials, offering automakers some flexibility in navigating the increased costs.
Industry-Wide Responses to US Tariffs
Other British automakers have also been forced to adapt. Aston Martin’s CEO, Adrian Hallmark, announced that the company would split the additional tariff costs with customers in the US, while also working to reduce inventory levels and slow down new shipments.
US Remains a Vital Export Market
The United States continues to be a crucial export destination for UK-made vehicles. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the US is the second-largest market for British cars after the European Union, accounting for nearly 20% of all UK car exports.
The UK car industry directly employs approximately 200,000 individuals. Any long-term disruption in exports to the US could pose a significant threat to employment and the wider automotive supply chain.
Looking Ahead
While shipments have resumed, ongoing uncertainty around tariffs and trade policies continues to challenge British automakers. As the global trade landscape shifts, companies like JLR will likely need to remain flexible, balancing operational costs with market demand to maintain competitiveness.