International Trade Briefing - March 2025

GLOBAL TRADE

UK-India Trade Negotiations Relaunched

The UK and India have resumed negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement, with Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds visiting India to explore opportunities in technology, manufacturing, and services. This agreement aims to strengthen trade relations and create new market opportunities for UK businesses. For Suffolk businesses, this could mean reduced tariffs and improved access to the Indian market, particularly for exporters in sectors like technology and manufacturing. Additionally, businesses sourcing materials or components from India may benefit from more favourable trade terms, streamlining their supply chains... Read More

UK-Swiss Confederation Temporary Agreement on Services Mobility

The UK and the Swiss Confederation presented a temporary agreement to Parliament focused on services mobility, designed to ensure the smooth movement of service providers between the two countries and maintain continuity in service delivery post-Brexit. For Suffolk businesses, particularly those in sectors like finance, legal, and consulting, this agreement could make it easier to operate in Switzerland while offering clearer regulatory guidelines for service provision between the UK and Switzerland...Read More

Safety and Security Declaration Requirements

Businesses importing goods from the EU to UK are now required to submit a Safety and Security Declaration as part of the UK’s efforts to strengthen border security and ensure the safe movement of goods. Importers must provide detailed information about the goods, including their origin, destination, and other relevant data, to comply with the new regulatory requirements. To avoid delays or penalties at the border, it is essential for businesses to prepare for this change. For further details and guidance, please refer to the official resources here.

Trade Remedies Notice 2025/5: Anti-Dumping Duty on Corrosion-Resistant Iron and Steel from China

UK introduced anti-dumping duty on corrosion-resistant iron and steel products imported from China, aiming to protect UK manufacturers from unfair trade practices. This measure is expected to impact Suffolk businesses by increasing costs for those importing these products, as they will now face higher tariffs. Additionally, the duty could shift competitive dynamics in the UK market, potentially benefiting domestic producers by making their products more competitive compared to the imported goods...Read More 

UK Trade Agreements in Effect

UK has secured trade agreements with 39 partners, covering 73 countries, including its recent addition to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This expansion opens new markets in the Asia-Pacific region, offering significant opportunities for Suffolk exporters. Suffolk businesses can leverage these agreements to gain preferential trade terms, enhancing their competitiveness in these emerging markets...Read More

BCC’s International Trade Manifesto – UK-EU TCA four years on

BCC launched TCA Four Years On: A Manifesto to Reset UK-EU Trade. TCA Four Years On: A Manifesto to Reset UK-EU Trade" is a proposal outlining recommendations for improving trade relations between the UK and the EU, four years after the implementation of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). The manifesto highlights areas where trade has been hindered by regulatory challenges, customs procedures, and other barriers. It calls for a review and renegotiation of aspects of the TCA to streamline processes, reduce friction, and foster closer economic ties. The goal is to create a more efficient and mutually beneficial trading environment for businesses on both sides of the Channel. This report recommends 14 priorities for the reset of UK-EU trade and economic links in 2025, plus BCC’s latest research from over 1,300 UK firms trading internationally. Click here to read the full report. The Minister for Trade, Douglas Alexander MP opened a recent roundtable by saying he had read the report and that officials were reviewing its recommendations.

BCC’s Trade and Investment: Getting Delivery Right for the UK Economy Paper.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has published its latest policy paper titled "Trade and Investment: Getting Delivery Right for the UK Economy", produced by the BCC Global Britain Challenge Group. The paper outlines key recommendations for improving the UK’s trade and investment framework to drive economic growth. It focuses on the importance of reducing trade barriers, enhancing international partnerships, and ensuring effective delivery of government trade policies. The paper aims to support UK businesses in navigating global markets, boosting exports, and attracting international investment to strengthen the UK economy. Click here to read the full report.

Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group (SCITG)

The SCITG is a forum for sharing best practice, hearing from local and national policymakers and thought leaders to enhance knowledge and capabilities in developing international trading activities.
For further details on the group or if you would like to be part of the SCITG, please contact the international team on international@suffolkchamber.co.uk

Events

BCC Driving International Trade Conference

Thursday 20 March - Central London

Speakers have been announced BCC’s first-ever Driving International Trade Conference, an exclusive, free-to-attend event designed for C-suite leaders focused on expanding their international reach and navigating the complexities of global trade. More details and registration process can be found here.

Empowering Global Growth - DBT

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) is running an International Food & Drink Event (IFE) on 18 March at the ExCel, London. It will bring together industry leaders and experts to help businesses get started and grow, and build on the peer-to-peer events run by the Food and Drink Export Council. Register here

Trade Mission to Japan - DBT


DBT's five-day trade mission to Japan to explore retail and e-commerce opportunities. 

Monday 30 June - Friday 04 July 2025

This mission will provide valuable market insights, networking opportunities, and support for building a successful brand in Japan. The mission culminates in a three-day product showcase at LIFESTYLE Week Tokyo, where participants will have a dedicated stand.Register here

International Trade Training

Introduction To International Trade Training – 4 day Workshop

Ioee Accredited – Earn 24 CPD points

Are you ready to take your business global? Our interactive 4-day International Trade Training Course is designed to equip Suffolk businesses with the essential knowledge and confidence needed to enter the international market. Whether you're considering exporting or importing for the first time, want to understand the intricacies of global trade, this course will provide you with practical insights into the processes, challenges, and opportunities involved in international trade. From understanding Incoterms and tariffs to navigating market research, export/import planning, and cultural awareness, this workshop covers everything you need to succeed. Don’t let misconceptions hold you back—gain the clarity and tools to tap into global markets and grow your business today! View flyer here. 

Contact: international@suffolkchamber.co.uk