Cryptocurrency industry groups are urging the UK government to integrate blockchain technology into the UK-US Tech Bridge initiative, warning that leaving digital assets out would be a “missed opportunity” that could weaken Britain’s global competitiveness.
In a joint letter ahead of Donald Trump’s September 17–19 visit to the UK, the groups stressed that distributed ledger technology (DLT) is revolutionizing financial services. They highlighted its role in improving capital flows, enabling faster and cheaper payments, driving efficiency, and fostering financial inclusion, all of which contribute to domestic economic growth and job creation.
Calls for Blockchain in UK-US Tech Bridge
The UK-US Tech Bridge is designed to strengthen bilateral cooperation across advanced technology sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space, quantum science, biotechnology, and digital finance. By excluding blockchain, the groups argue, the UK risks falling behind competitors that are embracing the innovation.
They urged policymakers to recognize the growing global role of blockchain and digital assets, positioning them as essential tools for modernizing financial infrastructure and attracting investment.
Trump’s UK Visit and Strategic Timing
The appeal comes just days before Trump’s state visit, which was arranged following an invitation from King Charles, conveyed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer earlier this year at a White House trade meeting. His three-day trip is expected to focus heavily on trade and technology partnerships, making the timing of the crypto industry’s push especially significant.
Blockchain’s Global Role
Blockchain adoption is expanding worldwide, with governments and financial institutions leveraging the technology to enhance transparency, security, and efficiency. Countries such as the United States, Singapore, and the UAE have already integrated blockchain into national strategies, further intensifying calls for the UK to avoid being left behind.
The industry groups emphasized that incorporating blockchain within the UK-US Tech Bridge would send a strong message of leadership in digital finance and future-proof the bilateral partnership against rapid technological change.
