As the global push for carbon neutrality intensifies, the European Union introduced the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to ensure imported goods are subject to the same carbon pricing as those produced within the EU. In response, Essex Chambers of Commerce has launched a dedicated CBAM Consultancy Service and...
Read moreThe Trade Confidence Outlook, conducted by the BCC’s award-winning Insights Unit, is a survey of just over 1,800 UK SME exporters. It shows the percentage of SME exporters reporting increased exports remained depressed ahead of the introduction of US tariffs. Overall, 21% of SME exporters reported an increase in...
Read moreResponding to the latest inflation data, published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “A small drop in the rate of inflation is always welcome. However, businesses fear it is the calm before the storm over the months ahead. “Today’s...
Read moreResponding to the latest labour market data, published by the ONS this morning, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The labour market continues to be a significant pressure bearing down on businesses of all sizes. “The rising cost of employment is a...
Read moreResponding to the news that the UK Global Tariff is being paused on dozens of products, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Tariffs are an additional cost burden that often have to be absorbed by firms or picked up by consumers and...
Read moreResponding to the announcements from the Chancellor and Business and Trade Secretary to support UK exporters, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “The BCC called last week for enhanced credit and financial support through UK Export Finance and the British Business...
Read moreResponding to the latest ONS data on trade, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: “There are clear signs that UK firms increased goods exports to the US ahead of the introduction of tariffs. Data for the past three months shows a 23% increase in the...
Read moreResponding to the latest GDP data, published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The stronger than expected GDP rebound in February, and positive data for the three months, are welcome news. There was an encouraging story from both the...
Read moreThe British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Insight Unit’s latest Quarterly Recruitment Outlook (QRO) reveals only a fifth (20%) of firms increased their workforce over the last three months. This is down from 24% in Q4 2024, as business grapple with rising costs, including the national insurance hike. Meanwhile, 63%...
Read moreAs Martyn’s Law has now officially become law, local businesses in the entertainment, hospitality, and childcare sectors are required to prepare for significant changes to their security protocols. The legislation, which received Royal Assent, aims to safeguard public venues from the growing threat of terrorism and will start having...
Read more
