INTENATIONAL TRADE
Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce leads Trade Debate at British Chambers Global Annual Conference
Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce( TVCC) Chief Executive Officer Paul Britton chaired a high-profile discussion on the future of UK trade and economic growth at the British Chambers of Commerce( BCC) Global Annual Conference yesterday, bringing together senior Government, European and business leaders to explore how stronger international partnerships can unlock growth for UK businesses. Paul Britton moderated the panel discussion, Delivering Growth Through Trade, which examined the opportunities and challenges facing UK exporters and the importance of building resilient supply chains in an increasingly complex global trading environment.
The panel featured Rt Hon Nick Thomas- Symonds MP, Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office and Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations, Madelaine Tuininga, Minister-Counsellor and Head of Economic and Trade Affairs at the EU Delegation to the UK, Søren Nikolajsen, Managing Director, Government & Industry Engagement – Defence & Trade at NatWest, and Becky Wirth, Head of Government Affairs, Northern Europe Region at 3M.
Discussions focused on strengthening the UK’ s export performance, improving competitiveness and ensuring businesses have access to the finance, market intelligence and practical support needed to succeed in international markets. Panellists also explored the role of UK-EU relations in supporting economic growth, reducing barriers to trade and strengthening supply chains across key
Alarm Bells ringing as services exports fall
Commenting on the latest trade data released by the Office for National Statistics, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“ Goods exports fared well in May with a 5.2 % increase in volume, particularly in chemicals exports to the rest of the world. By comparison, goods exports to the EU rose more modestly across a variety of commodity lines.
“ But sluggish trade in services is a deepening concern. In May, there was a static picture in exports accompanied by a 0.7 % fall in imports. Looking at the past three months, services exports have now fallen into negative territory. In part, this is due to uncertainty and depressed orders
BCC Global Conference
sectors including manufacturing, food and drink, defence and services.
The session highlighted the importance of collaboration between Government, business and international partners to help UK companies take advantage of global opportunities while increasing resilience in the face of geopolitical uncertainty. Paul Britton said:“ International trade remains one of the greatest opportunities for driving sustainable economic growth across the UK. It was a privilege to chair this discussion with such an experienced panel, bringing together perspectives from Government, European partners and industry to explore how we can remove barriers to trade, strengthen supply chains and help more businesses realise their export potential.
caused by the war in Iran. As services represent almost three fifths of total UK exports, this is a worrying warning sign.
“ The new government must focus on reducing trade barriers with the EU, getting the UK’ s trade deal with the US fully across the line and forging new free trade deals in the Americas and Indo-Pacific.
“ There must also be a renewed focus on export support so businesses can take full advantage of the new trade deal with India, and beyond. No part of the UK should be left behind when it comes to trade missions and access to quality advice on export.
Detailed Analysis:
“ The Thames Valley is one of the UK’ s most internationally connected regions, and our businesses continue to demonstrate the innovation, ambition and expertise needed to compete on the global stage. As a Chamber, we remain committed to ensuring their voice is heard in shaping the policies that will support future growth.” Becky Wirth said:“ International trade is fundamental to driving innovation, investment and sustainable economic growth. As a global business with deep roots in the UK, we know the value of open markets, resilient supply chains and strong partnerships between industry and government. Forums such as this provide an important opportunity to discuss how we can work together to reduce barriers to trade and help businesses of all sizes compete successfully in international markets.”
The BCC Global Annual Conference brings together business leaders, policymakers and Chambers from across the UK to discuss the issues shaping the nation’ s economic future. The trade panel formed part of a wider programme examining how businesses and Government can work together to boost investment, productivity and long-term prosperity.
As one of the UK’ s leading accredited Chambers of Commerce, TVCC continues to champion international trade, providing businesses with the advice, connections and practical support needed to grow in overseas markets and strengthen the region’ s global competitiveness.
Good Exports
Goods exports increased by 5.2 % in volume during May. There was a 7.7 % increase in non-EU exports which was driven by higher chemicals sales( including chemicals and pharma exports to the US). Other drivers were machinery and transport goods. Exports to the EU saw a lower 2.6 % increase.
Goods Imports
UK goods imports increased by 1.4 % in volume during May. There was a 3.3 % rise in non-EU imports, which was partially offset by a 0.4 % fall in purchases from the EU. This was driven by declines in fuels( refined oil from the Netherlands), machinery and transport( cars from Germany).
34 Autumn 2026