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Chancellor prioritises EU ties as UK’s key growth lever. Rachel Reeves said closer economic and security alignment with the European Union represents the “biggest prize” for Britain’s future prosperity, citing trade scale and the need to reduce post-Brexit friction.
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Strong ESG performance supports international R&D expansion and innovation outcomes. New academic research suggests companies with credible environmental, social, and governance records are better positioned to build overseas research operations, attract partners, and access global innovation ecosystems.
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UK manufacturers reduce US exports due to tariff uncertainties. A survey reveals that 20% of factories have already reduced exports, with 16% planning to follow. Despite this, the US remains a key market, though manufacturers are shifting towards local sourcing.
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US and India strike trade deal easing tariffs and reshaping energy flows. Washington will cut tariffs on Indian goods to 18% as New Delhi commits to ending purchases of Russian oil, a move already reverberating across equity markets, energy supply chains, and bilateral trade expectations.
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India and the EU finalise landmark trade agreement. The deal concludes nearly 20 years of negotiations, aiming to enhance economic ties. It will reduce tariffs, expand market access, and bolster supply-chain integration between the two regions.
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China ends 2025 with a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus. Exports rose even as U.S. tariffs tightened, driven by electric vehicles and diversified markets. The result highlights China’s external resilience but exposes continued weakness in domestic demand and renewed scrutiny of global trade imbalances.
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G7 finance ministers and allied economies are pushing to lessen global dependence on Chinese rare earths. The 10-nation meeting in Washington signalled growing consensus that critical minerals are not just trade goods but strategic assets. Governments are now exploring joint financing models and market coordination to support non-Chinese producers.
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Trump has ordered a 25% tariff on nations doing business with Iran. The move, announced via social media, threatens to upend global trade dynamics. Key U.S. partners — from China to India — now face a choice between maintaining commerce with Tehran or risking punitive tariffs on American trade.
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UK and Canada agree partnership to modernise public services. The deal will expand AI adoption, strengthen semiconductor research, and build collaboration in digital infrastructure between the two countries.
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U.S. officials warn Indonesia is reneging on vital trade commitments. The 2025 agreement promised sweeping tariff cuts and non-tariff barrier removal. Jakarta now reportedly seeks to reclassify parts of the accord as non-binding. Markets and businesses await clarity as negotiations enter a critical phase.