In a significant development for international trade, the United Kingdom is set to lead its largest ever trade mission to the United States, dubbed Greater Together LA. The event, taking place from May 18 to May 22, 2026, will be spearheaded by Peter Kyle, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade. This mission aims to enhance economic ties between the two nations, emphasizing shared values of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Greater Together LA initiative is expected to attract substantial attention, with the US-UK trading relationship valued at approximately $437 billion. This partnership supports around 2.6 million jobs across both countries, showcasing the deep economic interdependence that exists. The mission will also feature a two-day thought leadership summit sponsored by PwC, themed “Unexpected Connections,” which aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among business leaders.
The backdrop of this trade mission is particularly noteworthy, as the UK government is concurrently preparing to chair the P5 Process for the 2026 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Review Conference, scheduled to take place from April 27 to May 22 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This dual focus on trade and international security underscores the UK’s strategic approach to its global partnerships.
During the summit, more than 30 headline voices are expected to share insights and strategies that could drive future collaborations. Peter Kyle emphasized the mission’s goals, stating, “Our trade mission to Greater Together LA is championing shared values—innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—to unlock new opportunities for both our economies to grow and thrive.” This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to fostering economic growth through collaborative efforts.
Key players in the aviation sector, including British Airways and American Airlines, have expressed their support for the GREAT campaign, which aims to celebrate the creativity and innovation shared by the UK and the US. Sean Doyle, CEO of British Airways, remarked, “British Airways is proud to support the GREAT campaign as we celebrate the creativity and innovation shared by the United Kingdom and United States.” Similarly, Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of strengthening the partnership between the two nations.
The UK Labour Party, under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has drawn lessons from the successes of Australian leaders Bob Hawke and Paul Keating, indicating a desire to replicate their effective economic strategies. Darren Jones, a senior figure in Starmer’s government, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the discussions during the trade mission.
As the UK prepares for this ambitious trade mission, the potential for increased investment and collaboration between the US and UK is palpable. The partnership has an investment stock totaling around $1.5 trillion, illustrating the vast economic opportunities that lie ahead. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific outcomes of the mission and the long-term impacts on bilateral relations.
In summary, the Greater Together LA trade mission represents a crucial step in reinforcing the economic and cultural ties between the United Kingdom and the United States. As both nations look to the future, the focus on innovation, investment, and collaboration will be key to navigating the complexities of the global economy.