Plans are reportedly advancing for both King Charles III and the Prince of Wales to undertake separate visits to the United States in 2026. These potential trips would mark a significant royal engagement during a year that commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain.
Timing and Significance of the Royal Visits
According to reports in The Times, advanced discussions are currently underway regarding a visit by the King, which could take place as early as April 2026. This would be the first visit to the US by a reigning British monarch since 2007.
Separately, Prince William, who serves as President of the Football Association, is likely to travel to North America later in the year. His visit would coincide with the FIFA World Cup, which is being hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico between June and July.
A Diplomatic Backdrop of Trade Negotiations
The potential visits come at a crucial diplomatic moment, as the United Kingdom continues its efforts to finalise a comprehensive trade deal with the United States. This process has faced challenges, with Washington having reportedly paused a tech partnership that was announced during former President Donald Trump's state visit to the UK in September 2025.
In early December, a Downing Street spokesman confirmed that the government remained in "active conversations" with US officials regarding the tech agreement. However, the spokesman acknowledged that "negotiations of this kind are never straightforward."
Key Sticking Points in UK-US Relations
Reports indicate that US negotiators have grown frustrated with the slow progress on a wider trade deal, which was initially announced in May 2025. That agreement helped Britain avoid the 20% tariffs that Mr Trump imposed on many other nations.
Two major issues are thought to be central to the stalled negotiations. The first is Britain's digital services tax, which is strongly opposed by major US technology firms that backed the Trump administration. The second is the sensitive matter of securing greater access to British agricultural markets for American farmers.
The proposed royal visits in 2026, set against the historic backdrop of the independence anniversary, could provide a valuable opportunity for soft diplomacy. They may help foster a positive atmosphere as both nations work to resolve these complex trade and economic issues.
