United Kingdom: International Trade & Investment

Geopolitical disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is exposing critical vulnerabilities in the semiconductor supply chain through an emerging helium shortage. This analysis examines how maritime chokepoint risks transmit into sectors far removed from shipping, creating hidden dependencies across global manufacturing, capital markets...

The UK government has introduced significant changes to sanctions law and enforcement, including expanded measures targeting Russia, Iran, and global sanctions-evasion networks. Recent developments include new designations, licensing reforms, and enhanced compliance guidance affecting businesses operating in sanctioned jurisdictions.

The UK and Gulf Cooperation Council have finalized a comprehensive free trade agreement that will eliminate tariffs on 93% of UK exports worth £580 million annually.

In this episode of the World Retail Podcast, Rami Baitièh, CEO of Morrisons, shares insights on driving growth in one of retail's most competitive sectors. The conversation explores strategies for unlocking...

Geopolitical tensions and regulatory fragmentation are forcing businesses to confront difficult decisions about restructuring their global operations. This analysis examines the critical legal, regulatory, and strategic considerations for companies contemplating carve-outs or exits from China, covering everything from regulatory approvals and technology export controls to workforce obligations and deal structuring. Using an asset-heavy manufacturing business as a case study, it outlines key issues that boar

With less than two years until the EU's Forced Labour Regulation takes effect, businesses face sweeping prohibitions on products made with forced labour.

This quarter reflects cautious normalization. Revenues were largely flat year over year, and margins varied across regions and sectors. Productivity gains became increasingly concentrated in high-tech and industrial equipment manufacturing, supported by ongoing investment in AI and data infrastructure.

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has launched simultaneous Section 301 investigations against 60 economies, including the United Kingdom, over alleged failures to ban and enforce prohibitions on goods produced with forced labour.

Theescalation of conflict in the Middle East since late February 2026, particularly the disruption to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, has once again brought force majeure...