Country Guide: United States

Americas
Written By Cat

Published: June 2026

Introduction

The United States remains one of the most significant global markets for UK businesses, underpinned by deep bilateral trade ties and strong investment flows. The UK is one of the largest foreign investors in the US, and the US is the UK’s single largest trading partner, particularly in services such as finance, technology, and professional services. Key sectors offering opportunities for UK firms include advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, fintech, defence, and digital services.

The US economy is characterised by its scale, diversity, and regional variation, with major commercial hubs including New York, California, Texas, and Illinois. Recent policy developments—such as the Inflation Reduction Act and infrastructure investment programmes—have created new opportunities in renewable energy, construction, and supply chains, although they also introduce local content requirements that UK firms must navigate carefully.

While there is no comprehensive UK-US free trade agreement, cooperation continues through frameworks such as the Atlantic Declaration, supporting closer collaboration in technology, defence, and critical supply chains. For UK companies, success in the US often depends on understanding state-level regulations and market nuances.

Business Travel 

Travel between the UK and the United States is well established, with frequent direct flights from major UK airports (London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Edinburgh) to key US cities including New York (JFK), Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, and Atlanta. Flight times typically range from 7 to 11 hours depending on destination.

UK business travellers generally require authorisation under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for short visits (up to 90 days) under the Visa Waiver Program. Applications must be completed online prior to travel. For longer stays or specific business activities, a B-1 business visa may be required.

Domestic travel within the US is commonly undertaken via internal flights due to the country’s size, although rail services (e.g. Amtrak in the Northeast Corridor) and car hire are also widely used. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are standard in major cities.

Business etiquette in the US is typically direct, time-conscious, and results-oriented. Punctuality is expected, and meetings often move quickly to decision-making. Dress codes vary by sector but are generally business formal in finance and more relaxed in tech industries.

Accommodation standards are high, with a wide range of international hotel chains. Travellers should monitor local safety advice, particularly in large cities, and ensure appropriate travel insurance. Entry requirements are stable, but travellers should check official guidance before departure.

Events and Exhibitions  

The United States hosts some of the world’s most influential trade events across multiple sectors:

  • CES (Consumer Electronics Show) – January, Las VegasFocus: Consumer technology and innovation. A key global platform for UK tech firms.https://www.ces.tech

  • BIO International Convention – June, rotating US citiesFocus: Biotechnology and life sciences. Critical for UK pharma and biotech companies.https://www.bio.org/events/bio-international-convention

  • IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show) – September (biennial), ChicagoFocus: Advanced manufacturing and engineering. Important for industrial exporters.https://www.imts.com

  • NRF Retail’s Big Show – January, New YorkFocus: Retail technology and operations. Valuable for UK retail and fintech firms.https://nrfbigshow.nrf.com

  • SXSW (South by Southwest) – March, AustinFocus: Technology, media, and creative industries. Strong networking opportunities.https://www.sxsw.com

These events provide UK businesses with access to buyers, partners, and market intelligence across key US sectors.

Shipping and Logistics 

The United States has one of the world’s most extensive logistics networks. Major seaports include Los Angeles/Long Beach (West Coast), New York/New Jersey (East Coast), Savannah, and Houston, all of which handle significant international cargo volumes. Key freight airports include Chicago O’Hare, Memphis, Los Angeles, and Miami.

Shipping from the UK typically involves transatlantic sea freight (10–20 days depending on route) or air freight for time-sensitive goods. East Coast ports are generally the most efficient entry points for UK exporters.

Customs procedures are managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Importers must ensure compliance with documentation requirements, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and product-specific certifications. Certain sectors (e.g. food, pharmaceuticals, electronics) are subject to additional regulatory oversight from agencies such as the FDA.

There is no UK-US free trade agreement, so standard tariffs apply, although many goods benefit from relatively low duty rates. Businesses should also be aware of “Buy American” provisions in some federally funded projects.

Best practice includes working with experienced freight forwarders, understanding Incoterms, and planning for state-level regulatory differences.

Useful Links and Contacts for UK Businesses

Other Useful Links:• U.S. Customs and Border Protection: https://www.cbp.gov• SelectUSA (Investment Promotion): https://www.trade.gov/selectusa• U.S. Visa Information: https://travel.state.gov• Federal Trade Commission (business guidance): https://www.ftc.gov• Port of New York and New Jersey: https://www.panynj.gov

Cat
Previous

Country Guide: South Africa
Next

City Guide: Atlanta