UK Warns Potential US Diesel Export Ban Would Be a "Significant Concern"

LIVERPOOL, England — A potential US ban on diesel exports would represent a significant concern for the United Kingdom, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said Sunday, marking the strongest warning yet from the UK government over the proposed measure. Speaking at The POLITICO Pub during Labour's annual party conference in Liverpool, Reynolds said the UK benefits from a diverse fuel supply, but acknowledged the substantial impact a full export ban could have on the country. A Significant Exposure for Britain The UK currently sources roughly one-sixth of its diesel from the United States, making it one of the countries most vulnerable to a potential export ban. Reynolds, however, urged caution in interpreting the situation, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between public statements and what the US has actually proposed so far. President Donald Trump has expressed support for proposals to restrict American diesel exports, citing high fuel prices affecting US drivers and farmers ahead of the midterm elections. Officials have reportedly considered a 90-day export ban, alongside more limited voluntary restriction measures. Reynolds Stresses UK's Diverse Supply Chain Asked directly about the prospect of a full ban, Reynolds acknowledged it would clearly be a significant concern for the UK, but pointed to the country's broader energy resilience, noting that diverse supply chains across multiple sectors, including fuel, help mitigate risk from any single source. Part of a Broader European Response Reynolds joins a growing list of senior European officials voicing concern over the potential restrictions. French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday that he had personally urged Trump against pursuing an export ban, warning that such a move would be damaging not only for the rest of the world but for the US economy itself.