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Winds of change blow over global trade

[ February 4, 2026   //   ]

Changes in global trade policies and the introduction of sweeping tariffs are forcing UK manufacturers to reassess their approach to international trade, according to new research from manufacturers organisation, Make UK and DHL Express.

International Trade Trends 2026: UK Manufacturers in Global Marketssaid that growing trade barriers are prompting firms to diversify markets, adjust supply chains and rethink where future growth lies.

While the US remains a key export destination for UK manufacturers, with six in ten currently trading with the country, the direct and potential impact of tariffs is already being felt.

One in four manufacturers report losses linked to added costs arising from US tariffs, while nearly a quarter say they accelerated exports to the US in the early months of 2025 to try to beat anticipated tariff increases.

At the same time, manufacturers are increasingly hedging their exposure. Almost one in four say they have shifted their focus towards non-US markets, while one in five have already stopped or reduced exports to the US altogether.

A further 16% say they have plans to do so.

However a quarter of exporters are carrying on with their US trade plans without adjustment.

While the US remained the second-most attractive growth market, manufacturers are placing greater emphasis on Asia and Oceania.

Beyond the US, the research highlights wider structural barriers to international trade. Eight in ten companies have been impacted by tariffs of some form. Tariffs and trade rules, including rules of origin, are cited by 58% of manufacturers as a major obstacle to exporting. Half also say that customs delays are a significant challenge, with paperwork, inconsistent processes and a lack of clear guidance.

But almost eight in ten manufacturers say they are confident in the UK’s overall trade prospects. They also believe Britain has a strong manufacturing reputation globally, with 85% of respondents saying they emphasise the ‘Britishness’ of their product or company.

The research also shows that 63% of manufacturers will source more of their materials domestically over the next five years, up from 49% in the years since 2020, as they look to strengthen resilience, reduce risk and manage costs.

More than half say they want greater export support from government, while 38% would value access to a logistics partner service and 36% identify customs support as a priority.

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