In recent years, UK politics have played a major role in shaping how international businesses approach trade and investment in the country. From Brexit to shifting trade deals and regulatory changes, the landscape has become far more complex — and opinions are divided on whether these changes are helping or hindering the UK’s global competitiveness.

Since leaving the EU, the UK has sought to establish its own trade agreements, but many foreign businesses still face uncertainty around tariffs, customs procedures, and regulatory divergence. This uncertainty can discourage some overseas companies from setting up operations or expanding in the UK.

At the same time, the UK government has introduced incentives to attract investment — such as freeports, tax breaks for innovation, and streamlined visa routes for high-skilled workers. However, questions remain about how consistent and reliable these policies will be, given frequent changes in leadership and political direction.

The strength (or weakness) of the pound also plays a role. A weaker currency can make UK exports more attractive but raises costs for imports and international investors. And with ongoing debates about taxation, environmental regulations, and immigration policy, many foreign firms are taking a “wait and see” approach.

So, I’m curious — for those of you working in international trade or investment:

• Have recent UK political shifts affected your company’s interest or confidence in trading here?

• Are government initiatives like freeports or trade missions making a tangible difference?

• Or is political instability still the biggest deterrent?

At present, our business interests in serviced offices and physical space is very stable. The Virtual Offices and Registered Office Addresses are over 50% subscribed by business owners based offshore. 

We also have warehouses that operate a 3PL business.  Over 60% of these clients are based offshore, and they all have to register a UK business entity before trading here.  But we risk making the red tape too complex.  Please look after our entrepreneurs!