Food giant threatens to close UK biofuel plant after US tariff deal

Associated British Foods threatens to close the UK's Vivergo bioethanol plant unless it receives state support following the US tariff deal with the UK. The government is in talks with AB Foods to negotiate assistance, but the company is preparing to consult staff for a possible shutdown if help is not secured. The UK plans to replace a 19% tariff on ethanol exports from the US with a tax-free quota of up to 1.4 billion litres as part of the trade agreement. If no aid is received, Vivergo may cease production by September 13.