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BCC press release: UK India trade agreement - a big deal for business

Reacting to news of an agreement in principle for a free trade deal between the UK and India, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, said: “A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and India is a huge boost to our economies and a welcome lift for our exporters. Both Governments should be congratulated for their strong engagement with business and hard work throughout long, but ultimately successful, negotiations.

Fiona Parsons

7 May, 2025

Business West

Q&A with Business West’s New Board Director: Professor Sir Steve West

Professor Sir Steve West CBE has joined Business West as a Non Executive Board Director. Sir Steve is Chief Executive Officer of the University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE Bristol), and was awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2023 for services to Health, Business and Education. His appointment as Board Director marks a return to the Business West fold, having previously served as President of the Bristol Chamber and Initiative eight years ago. Here, he answers our questions…

Amy Drummond

23 April, 2025

Business West

Latest BCC updates on US Tariffs

Latest updates from British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) on US Tariffs. Business West is one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in the UK, and we are working closely with the BCC on this. Tariffs Loom Large As Growth Forecasts Cut (22 April 2025) Responding to the latest IMF forecasts for the UK and Global economies, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The downgrades for both the UK and global economy should come as no surprise to anyone. Businesses are under no illusion that this year will be tough, and sustained growth is likely to be elusive. “Firms were already facing into a wall of higher domestic costs, including the national insurance rise, before the US unleashed its explosive tariff proposals. “But there is strong support for the Government’s approach to continue negotiation and not immediately retaliate. The US has been open to talks and the signals that a deal can be reached are promising. “Firms also don’t want to have all their eggs in one basket and are keen to see closer trading relationships with the EU and the Indo-Pacific region. “There is no denying the outlook remains clouded with uncertainty. As retaliatory moves by other countries escalate, the prospects of a global trade war and wider economic fallout are increasing. “But talk of recession remains premature, it is by no means certain. The government must do all it can to boost business confidence by providing practical support around infrastructure projects, reforming business rates and cutting red tape in the right areas. “It must also stick firmly to its pledge of no further tax rises for business in the autumn budget and instead consider all its fiscal options.” More information on the IMF forecasts

Fiona Parsons

22 April, 2025

Business West

Q&A with Independent West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Metro Mayor candidate Ian Scott

What do you think a Metro Mayor’s role should be? It is to bring the West of England together to present clear local visions to local people, the Government and International Investors. It can do this by listening to local residents, Councils, businesses, public sector bodies and voluntary groups to come up with proposals that the majority of West of England Combined Authority (WECA) members can vote and agree on.

Ian Scott

11 April, 2025

Business West