International Trade Briefing - April 2025

GLOBAL TRADE

UK-Japan Industrial Policy

In March 2025, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, alongside Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs Secretary of State David Lammy, held discussions with Japanese counterparts in Tokyo, focusing on aligning shared industrial policy priorities. This collaboration aims to enhance bilateral trade and foster greater industrial cooperation between the UK and Japan.

GB-NI Customs Changes

Following the guidance issued in September 2024, there has been extensive preparatory work undertaken for the new arrangements for the movement of goods from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) to Northern Ireland by parcels or freight set out in the Windsor Framework. New customs rules for postal packets and parcels moving from GB to NI take effect on 1 May. To help businesses navigate these changes, HMRC’s NI Customs team has compiled an FAQ sheet addressing common questions raised by stakeholders.

UK-Switzerland Trade Negotiations

The sixth round of negotiations for an enhanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Switzerland took place in Switzerland. Economic growth remains a top priority for the UK government, and FTAs play a crucial role in achieving this goal. The enhanced FTA aims to ensure market access for UK services suppliers, facilitate seamless data and idea exchange, and provide long-term certainty for UK business travel to Switzerland. This agreement will help strengthen the UK-Swiss trading relationship, supporting 130,000 services jobs and over £17 billion in services exports.

US Trade Tariffs

New US Reciprocal Tariffs - The US imposed 10% additional duty on most UK goods, with notable exceptions including automotive, steel, aluminium, semiconductors, and key industrial products. This move marks a shift in trade dynamics between the two nations and could impact the cost of UK exports to the US. Businesses are encouraged to review the full scope of these changes and prepare accordingly.

US Car Tariffs in Effect - A 25% tariff on UK vehicle exports to the US has taken effect, increasing the total duties to 27.5%. This change impacts the cost of exporting UK vehicles to the US, and the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is actively working with its Network to provide compliance support and guidance to affected businesses.

UK Response to US Tariffs - In response to the new US tariffs, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds MP, has launched a call for input on potential countermeasures. The government is seeking feedback from businesses and stakeholders, with the submission deadline set for 1 May 2025. This consultation will help shape the UK’s approach to addressing the tariffs and mitigating their impact.

US Trade Tariff Impact

A recent survey conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) reveals that 62% of UK businesses with trade exposure to the USA expect to be negatively impacted by US tariffs, compared to only 41% of those without such exposure. The study, which was carried out in a rapid timeframe, found that 32% of these firms plan to increase prices as a response to the tariffs, while 15% will seek alternative suppliers, and 13% intend to absorb the added costs. Around 36% of firms said they would take no action at this stage.

Additionally, 44% of businesses with exposure to the USA believe the UK should negotiate a closer trade relationship with the US, while 43% are in favour of enhancing trade with other markets.

Many businesses, particularly small manufacturers and exporters, are concerned about the practical challenges posed by the tariffs, with some contemplating shifts in their market strategies. Read full results here.

Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group (SCITG)

Our next Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group event, which will be held on Wednesday 30th April 2025, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Skechers Distribution Centre in Bury St Edmunds.

We’ll be joined by Paul Copsey and Mark Miller - Auditel’s Lead Carbon Consultant & Verifier, who will share key insights on CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) and it’s growing importance in global trade.

In addition to the presentation, there will be a tour of the Skechers Distribution Centre, offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of the leading global brands in action.

You can book your place here. Places are limited, so be quick!

Events

Chamber Trade Academy
As part of our commitment to support businesses in Suffolk to navigate their international trade journey, we are pleased to launch a series of free virtual sessions in partnership with a selected group of UK Chambers across the country. The purpose of these sessions is to provide general insights into exporting, importing, customs as well as keep traders up to date with the latest changes in regulations and provide tips on how to grow globally.

Chambers Trade Academy: US Tariffs and Impact on UK Trade

•    Thursday 24th April 2025
•    12:00 – 13:00
•    Virtual

Join us for this free webinar, where we will be discussing the recent U.S. tariff announcements and implications for UK trade. On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump introduced sweeping tariffs, including a 10% duty on all UK imports and a specific 25% tariff on automobiles. 195 countries have been hit by these tariffs and with highly interconnected global trading networks, UK companies must closely monitor U.S. tariff announcements and proactively manage their impact to stay competitive in an evolving trade landscape. Sudden tariff changes can significantly increase costs, disrupt supply chains, and reduce market access.

The Webinar will offer:

• An overview of the sectors most affected, such as the automotive industry, which faces significant challenges due to the 25% tariff on car exports.
• Economic Impact: Explore the broader economic consequences, including impact on global economic growth and shifts in trade dynamics. 
• Expert Panel Discussion: Engage with policy experts as they discuss strategies to navigate these new trade barriers.

Book your place here

ESG & Beyond: Adapting to the new global sustainability landscape

Sustainable compliance is no longer optional for UK traders—it’s a competitive necessity. With evolving regulations like the UK’s Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) and global ESG reporting frameworks, businesses must integrate environmental and social responsibility into their operations. Non-compliance can lead to fines, reputational damage, and loss of investor confidence, while proactive sustainability strategies attract customers, enhance supply chain resilience, and open doors to new markets. As global trade partners demand transparency, UK traders who embrace sustainable compliance will not only mitigate risks but also position themselves as leaders in the future of responsible commerce.

This webinar will provide insights on:

•    The latest global ESG regulations and compliance requirements
•    Strategies for integrating sustainability into business operations
•    The financial and reputational impacts of ESG compliance
•    Emerging trends in corporate sustainability beyond compliance

Book your place here

Partner Events

Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce

Navigating Egypt’s Healthcare Market: Opportunities, Partnerships & Investment Insights

• Wednesday 23rd April
• 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• Online event

Unlock exciting opportunities in Egypt's rapidly evolving healthcare sector in this exclusive webinar, hosted in collaboration with the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce and the Department for Business & Trade at the British Embassy in Cairo. As the healthcare landscape transforms with increasing demand, government reforms, and a strong push for local manufacturing, now is the perfect time to explore investment and partnership prospects in hospitals, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and digital health. Learn about emerging trends, regulatory strategies, and real-world success stories that can help you thrive in this dynamic market. Register for free now and be part of Egypt’s healthcare revolution. More details of the event can be found here or Register for free.

Unlocking Growth Opportunities in Egypt's Infrastructure Sector

• Thursday 1st May
• 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• Online event

In partnership with the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce, the Department for Business and Trade, and the Export Academy. This session is tailored to help UK businesses navigate the thriving Egyptian market and access valuable government support, unlocking opportunities in infrastructure. As Egypt's infrastructure sector rapidly modernises it’s efforts in transportation, energy, and smart cities, there’s immense potential for investment and collaboration. You’ll gain insights on navigating the Egyptian market, learn market entry strategies, understanding financial considerations, and building strategic partnerships. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your business into one of the most promising emerging markets in Africa and the Middle East. More details of the event can be found here or Register for free.

Department of Business and Trade Events

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

Drive your UK growth with DBT and Tesco! Find out more about the UK’s fastest growing new Marketplace

·         Tuesday 29th April

·         10:00 AM - 11:00 AM GMT+1

·         Online event

*Opportunity for Food and drink, Health and Beauty, Personal Digital, Petcare, Fashion, Home and Garden brands*

Reach Millions of new Customers online with the UK’s largest grocery retailer with 22m Clubcard holders and over 100 years of retail selling experience!

The Tesco team will be joining DBT to give you their insight on how to get the most out of selling on Tesco Marketplace.

Including:

·         Key Categories to sell on Tesco marketplace

·         Seller requirements including Customer service and returns

·         The quickest way to onboard and get selling

·         How to get the most out of your listings via brand pages and marketing

·         How to sell more via personalisation

Register

AI Revolution: How Gen AI is reshaping digital commerce, retail supply chain and the consumer journey

•    Tuesday 13th May
•    10:00 AM - 11:00 AM GMT+1
•    Online event

How is Generative AI Reshaping Consumer Businesses?

Gen AI isn't an upgrade - it's a fundamental shift.

AI is driving work automation and productivity at unprecedented speeds, enabling high-quality, consistent customer journeys without the massive infrastructure overhauls traditionally associated with digital transformation. 

From hyper-personalised shopping experiences to streamlined supply chain optimisation, Gen AI is redefining how retailers, e-commerce platforms, brands, and marketplaces operate. AI's ability to exploit data and know-how is transforming customer experience, marketing strategy, product development, and logistics—advancing the entire industry into a new digital first era.

This session unpacks how brands, platforms, and tech providers can adapt and thrive in the new AI-driven landscape.

Register

DBT – Trade Mission to Japan

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

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