LONDON — U.K. plans aimed at tackling illegal deforestation risk is stoking U.S. trade tensions, with Washington expressing “strong concerns” over Britain adopting elements of the EU regime.
The row is the latest sign of growing U.S. frustration with U.K. efforts to align more closely with Brussels as part of its post-Brexit reset in relations with the bloc.
Last month, the U.K. unveiled plans for new deforestation rules modeled on the EU’s in a move aimed at limiting regulatory divergence. The proposals would require British businesses trading in certain commodities — including beef, cocoa, coffee, oil palm, rubber, soya, and wood — to prove their products are not linked to illegal deforestation.
The Trump administration has been one of the most vocal critics of the EU’s deforestation regulation, due to take effect later this year, arguing it will create unnecessary trade barriers and runs counter to commitments made under last year’s EU-U.S. Turnberry deal.
