(qlmbusinessnews.com . Thurs 26th June, 2025) London, UK —
Government Launches New Trade Plan to Shield UK Firms from Cheap Imports
The UK government is set to introduce a fresh trade strategy designed to protect domestic businesses from the threat of low-cost imports while also boosting the country’s export performance amidst increasing global trade tensions.
The initiative, to be revealed during the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) conference in London, comes at a critical time for British businesses facing pressure from recent US tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Concerns have been raised that steel and car exports originally bound for the US may now flood UK markets, undercutting local manufacturers. In response, the new strategy aims to remove international barriers for British exporters while reinforcing trade protections to prevent unfair competition from cheaper foreign goods.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the forthcoming plan would “ensure British businesses are protected from harm,” as ministers work to create a fair and sustainable trade environment.
The UK’s trade strategy will strike a balance between offensive and defensive trade measures. On the offensive front, there will be increased financial support for UK exporters and initiatives to simplify complex global trade regulations. On the defensive side, particular attention will be given to safeguarding core sectors like steel and automotive manufacturing.
Currently, the UK has not matched the European Union’s decision to impose heavy tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, nor has it extended steel import safeguards beyond 2026. With the risk of cheap goods entering British markets, ministers are being urged to act swiftly to protect homegrown industries.
The government is also expected to highlight the UK’s success in securing a long-awaited free trade agreement with India, as well as improving trade ties with the EU. The UK remains the only country to have secured preferential trade terms with President Trump’s US administration.
Andrew Opie of the British Retail Consortium cautioned that while recent trade deals are promising, swift domestic reforms are also needed. He called for immediate action on the so-called “de minimis” tax exemption rule, which allows low-value packages to enter the UK duty-free. He warned that the rule is being exploited by foreign firms like Shein and Temu, allowing them to sidestep UK taxes and regulatory standards, placing UK retailers at a competitive disadvantage.
“The minimal oversight on these imports threatens UK retail standards and undermines fair competition,” Mr Opie said.
The trade strategy follows on from the government’s broader 10-year industrial plan, which includes energy cost relief for businesses and exemptions from certain green levies. Ministers hope this suite of pro-business initiatives will demonstrate a renewed commitment to supporting British enterprise after recent tax hikes, including increased National Insurance contributions.
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