Following recent international agreements with India, the US, and the EU, the UK Government is preparing to publish a new trade strategy to support economic growth. Ahead of this, HSBC UK surveyed 1,700 British businesses, including over 250 manufacturing firms, to gauge their priorities.
Key Findings from HSBC UK’s Trade Strategy Research:
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50% of manufacturers want a pipeline of new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
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31% favour sector-specific trade deals tailored to industries like manufacturing.
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48% call for measures to reduce cross-border regulatory fragmentation.
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23% want AI and digital innovation prioritised in international trade strategy.
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38% would like resources for trade missions and market entry support.
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27% seek a focus on sustainable trade and green exports.
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26% want improved support for services exports.
Rohit Moudgil, Head of Manufacturing and Industrials at HSBC UK, said:
"Despite ongoing volatility in the global trade landscape, recent agreements have provided some clarity for manufacturers. Our latest research highlights strong demand for bilateral and sector-specific trade deals, along with growing emphasis on AI and digital technologies as tools to enhance global competitiveness."
Supporting Manufacturers to Trade Internationally
Manufacturers noted that inconsistent regulations between countries often act as a barrier, particularly for smaller businesses starting their international journey.
"For SMEs, navigating complex, varying regulations can be a significant hurdle," Moudgil added. "At HSBC UK, we regularly support manufacturers using our global network and sector expertise to help businesses expand confidently into new markets."
What UK-Only Businesses Need to Go International
HSBC UK also surveyed firms currently operating only within the UK but considering international expansion. Their top priorities included:
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Additional policy support, including FTAs (38%)
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Networks of internationally trading businesses (37%)
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Simplified, accommodating regulations (37%)
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Greater access to trade finance (33%)
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Risk mitigation products and services (31%)
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Sector-specific trade policies (27%)
A Call for a Modern, Inclusive Trade Strategy
The research underscores a growing consensus for a UK trade strategy in 2025 that not only secures new trade deals but also addresses regulatory hurdles, digital transformation, AI adoption, and green trade opportunities.
Manufacturers and industry leaders alike are calling for a modernised, globally connected approach to trading, capable of supporting businesses of all sizes and helping UK industries thrive in an increasingly digital and sustainable global economy.
