Supporting exporters in a changing trade landscape

Last month, I attended the British Chambers of Commerce Driving International Trade Conference.

Against a backdrop of the US-Israeli war with Iran and ongoing tariffs, and the instability this is creating for traders, there was a clear focus on growth, the benefits of exporting for the country as a whole, and the opportunities for UK businesses to trade globally. It was a positive and forward-looking event.

At the same time, in the breakout sessions and open discussions, exporters were asking the more difficult, practical questions.

Where is the certainty coming from?
How do we keep up with ongoing policy changes?
And where can we go for the support we need to navigate it all?

It’s something we’re hearing more and more.

International trade has always had its challenges, but for many businesses, it now feels like the pace and complexity of change has stepped up again.

Recent research from the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with GS1 UK, found that 0% of surveyed UK exporters say they have “comprehensive support” from government to manage trade policy changes.

At the same time, changes within the Department for Business and Trade mean many businesses are anticipating a reduction in publicly funded support in the future.

South West resilience

What’s striking, particularly in the South West, is that this lack of support hasn’t stopped businesses from trading internationally.

According to the Brunel Centre’s recent Economic Audit:

• EU exports from the region rose 19% above pre-pandemic levels by 2023
• Non-EU exports surged 33%, reflecting a shift towards global markets
• The region generated £9.5 billion in exports (2022), maintaining a trade surplus, in contrast to the UK’s wider trade deficit

It’s a strong reminder that exporters are resilient, adaptable and outward-looking.

But it also highlights something important: success is increasingly being achieved despite the complexity, not because it has reduced.

Opportunities for growth

Opportunity still exists, but you still need to navigate the complexities.

Free Trade Agreements, new market access, and continued global demand for UK goods and services all present real potential for growth.

However, making the most of these opportunities often comes down to understanding the detail.

Whether it’s rules of origin, preference, tariff classifications, customs procedures or documentation, the difference between getting it right and getting it wrong can directly impact cost, competitiveness and customer relationships.

This is where we are seeing a shift.

More businesses are recognising that access to reliable expertise is becoming a key part of trading successfully, not just when something goes wrong, but as part of day-to-day operations.

The growing role of expert support

As the support landscape evolves, many exporters are starting to think differently about how they access guidance.

Where government-backed support has historically played a larger role, businesses are increasingly exploring how to work with organisations like Business West, that specialise in international trade, whether for advice, training, or hands-on support.

It’s not about replacing what’s been there before, but about recognising that in a more complex environment, investing in the right expertise can help unlock opportunity and reduce risk.

While our next Talking Trade event has been postponed until later in the year, the need for practical support and informed discussion hasn’t changed.

Our team of 24 international trade specialists are working with businesses every day - helping them identify opportunities, gain a competitive advantage, and ensure their goods move smoothly, compliantly and on time. Are you ready to identify opportunities for growth overseas?