BCC press release: Small Business Plan 'important step forward'
Responding to the launch of the Government’s Small Business Plan, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the BCC, said:
Amy Joyce
31 July, 2025
Business West
Showing results 145–153 of 520
BCC press release: SME exporters hit by new US customs charges
Responding to President Trump’s decision to charge import duties for low value goods entering the US, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, said: “This development has been coming for several months but is still a major blow to UK exporters to the US. Smaller firms and sole traders, who have invested strongly in e-commerce sales internationally, will be worst hit. “But the UK is in a comparatively advantageous position in terms of these additional duties compared with those faced by other countries. “The EU is also likely to scrap its de minimis threshold by 2028, and the UK government is launching a review into removing the threshold here too. “There are still great opportunities, both in the US market and other markets globally for UK goods, but SMEs will need to rethink their sales and distribution plans to deal with these added duties. “The Chamber Network in the UK, and internationally, can provide the best advice, alongside the logistics industry, to overcome these challenges and sustain export growth. “Action on the government’s new trade strategy is now also more urgent. Exporters to the US, particularly SMEs and sole traders, will need additional support and advice to deal with the disruption and added costs these de minimis threshold changes will cause.”
Fiona Parsons
31 July, 2025
Business West
Business West finalists in global competition
We are thrilled Business West has been named a finalist in the 2025 World Chambers Competition, hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) World Chambers Federation. Our project, ‘Innovation in International Trade: Carnet Tracker and CarnetCheck’, has been recognised in the Best Chamber Innovation Project category. This recognition underscores our dedication to driving innovation in international trade and delivering exceptional service to our customers.
Fiona Parsons
30 July, 2025
Business West
BCC press release: India trade deal marks start of new era
Reacting to news on the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: “The signing of this agreement is a clear signal of the UK’s continuing commitment to free and fair trade.
Fiona Parsons
25 July, 2025
Business West
Chamber conversations: Daniel Hanna from Auditel UK Ltd
At Business West, we’re proud to support a diverse network of businesses and organisations – from ambitious start-ups to established firms and charities – all working to make our region stronger and more connected.
Amy Joyce
24 July, 2025
Business West
Spotlight on Anna Smith, CEO of Quartet Community Foundation
Occasionally we like to shine the spotlight on our members, and in this case one of the members of the Bristol Initiative. We sat down with Anna Smith, CEO of Quartet Community Foundation to talk about their work and their relationship with the Bristol Initiative.
Jenny Ablett
23 July, 2025
Business West
Collaboration Key to Improve Skills Landscape - Business West host Skills England
Collaboration was the theme of the day when Business West welcomed representatives from Skills England to the West of England.
Fay Daniels
23 July, 2025
Business West
How Tech for Growth Helped Automation Business Improve SEO
DelaControl design, build, and commission industrial control systems and machinery, working with manufacturers and machine builders across industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, food and packaging.
Fay Daniels
22 July, 2025
Business West
Customs Update: Summer 2025
Navigating the complex world of customs can be a daunting task for exporters and importers alike. During the “Talking Trade & Summer BBQ 2025” event, Neil Bird, Customs and Trade Advisor at Gaston Schul, delivered an insightful talk on the latest customs updates and shared practical advice to help traders ensure compliance while minimising risks. If your business is trading internationally, staying informed about regulatory changes and customs best practices is essential. Here are the key highlights and actionable insights from Neil's session. 1. Understanding Customs Valuation Customs valuation plays a critical role in international trade as it determines how much duty and tax traders will pay on imported goods. Neil referenced new guidance introduced by HMRC on 25th June 2025, aiming to clarify the process of customs valuation.
Fiona Parsons
21 July, 2025
Business West