New Export Data Signals Growing Challenges for SMEs

Research from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) provides a timely snapshot of the challenges facing UK exporters, particularly SMEs at a moment of heightened global uncertainty. The findings will resonate with many businesses across Suffolk who are navigating rising costs, disrupted supply chains and shifting overseas demand.

Key findings from the BCC Trade Confidence Outlook

The BCC’s Trade Confidence Outlook, based on responses from over 2,000 UK exporters and conducted between 9 February and 9 March 2026, shows that export momentum remains fragile even before the full effects of the Iran conflict are felt:  

·         Just 25% of businesses reported an increase in export orders in Q1 2026, compared with 31% in Q2 2018 before successive geopolitical and economic shocks.

·         SMEs continue to lag as only 23% saw increased export orders, compared with 38% of larger firms.

·         Service exporters face growing headwinds, with just 23% reporting increased orders, compared with 29% for manufacturers.

These figures underline the uneven recovery in global trade and the pressures being felt by smaller exporters, many of whom form the backbone of Suffolk’s international business community.

BCC: “Now is the time to double down on exports”

Speaking on the findings, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, warned against retreating from open trade at a critical moment for UK competitiveness:

“These findings make for dispiriting reading… But this is the exact time when we must double down on our efforts to grow exports and involve more UK businesses in this fight. To take an isolationist approach and retreat from the principles of fair and open trade would be a grave mistake.”

The BCC is urging government to:

·         Boost export support for SMEs

·         Move trade processes further online to reduce administrative burdens

·         Accelerate progress on the EU reset, including food and drink exports, skills mobility, electricity market reintegration, and closer alignment on emissions trading schemes

What this means for Suffolk exporters

For Suffolk businesses trading internationally or considering exporting for the first time, these findings reinforce several key points:

·         Exporting remains challenging but essential for long-term growth and resilience

·         Smaller businesses need targeted, practical support, particularly around compliance, market access and customs processes

·         Proximity to the EU still matters, especially for food & drink, advanced manufacturing, and services firms with European clients

At the Suffolk Chamber, we continue to advocate for simpler trade processes, stronger export support and clearer market access while helping local firms navigate today’s realities.

Read the full BCC press release:
Smaller Exporters Struggling To Make Headway