Business

New trade strategy promises billions in export support and faster deals for UK businesses

Published

5 months ago

June 25, 2025

Welsh exporters among those set to benefit as government outlines post-Brexit plan to boost trade

THE UK GOVERNMENT will unveil its first Trade Strategy since leaving the EU on Thursday (June 26), setting out a new approach that aims to unlock £5 billion in opportunities for British businesses and expand UK Export Finance (UKEF) capacity to £80 billion.

The strategy promises faster, more targeted trade deals, a tougher defence system against unfair practices, and a renewed focus on services and high-growth sectors. It marks a shift from broad, slower agreements to a more agile model designed to deliver quicker wins for exporters.

Support for smaller businesses and Welsh firms

A new Small Exports Builder scheme will improve access to export insurance and finance for SMEs, while UKEF’s increased lending capacity will provide up to £13 billion in direct support for key industries. The strategy also includes measures to streamline repeat orders from overseas buyers—critical for Welsh firms with existing international clients.

Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, said: “We are focusing on sector-specific deals that will help Welsh businesses expand into new markets with confidence. This is a vital step in raising living standards across Wales and delivering on our Plan for Change.”

Boost for services and green sectors

The UK—already the world’s second-largest exporter of services—will pursue mutual recognition of qualifications and digital trade reforms to expand this strength. It will also deepen green energy cooperation with countries like Japan, South Korea and Norway, while exploring new markets such as Brazil and the Philippines.

Tougher trade defence and global engagement

To protect British industries, the strategy pledges to make the UK’s trade remedies system more agile and accountable. The government will also replace the current steel safeguard measure, due to expire in 2026, with a new framework developed in collaboration with industry and unions.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “We’re sharpening our trade defence and pursuing deals that focus on sectors driving the most growth. This is trade policy fit for the real world.”

Backing from industry leaders

Business groups have welcomed the strategy. Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, called it “a clear, evidence-based approach” and said it could “generate economic growth in every region of the UK.”

Mike Hawes, CEO of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), added: “Balanced trading relationships that break down tariffs and barriers will help us get British vehicles into global markets, boosting jobs and prosperity.”

Building on recent deals

The Trade Strategy follows recent agreements with India, the United States, and the EU. The India deal alone is expected to add £4.8 billion to the UK economy and includes significant tariff reductions. The US agreement—the only one it has signed under the current administration—safeguards jobs in manufacturing sectors including automotive and aerospace. Meanwhile, the EU accord eases access for food and pet travel, removing some Brexit-era blockages.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “What works for business works for Britain. This strategy is about helping firms sell more, grow faster, and compete globally. It’s a cornerstone of our Plan for Change—ensuring working people feel the benefits.”

The strategy is published alongside the Global Trade Outlook 2025, which explores the trends shaping the future of international trade.

Business

Holiday lets allowed to stay at Narberth dairy farm

Published

2 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL for a Pembrokeshire dairy farm to keep two “alternative” holiday pods sited without permission as a way of diversifying in an uncertain industry has been given the go-ahead.

In an application recommended for approval at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Vaynor Farm Ltd sought retrospective permission for the siting of two self-catering holiday accommodation pods at The Cart House, Vaynor Farm, Bethesda, near Narberth as part of a farm diversification enterprise.

It was before committee members as it was recommended for delegated conditional approval by senior officers despite being against the development plan.

Previous retrospective schemes, for two self-catering pods along with an application to retain a shepherd hut accommodation pod at another farm, a part of the Vaynor Farm farm enterprise, were refused in 2023 and 2025, the latter due to “an unjustified and harmful impact on the character and appearance of the open countryside”.

Detailing the current application, an officer report for members said the pods: Vaynor Farm Pod within the garden of The Cart House, and The Paddock Pod, on the edge of a small paddock, were constructed off-site and have been transported to their current locations, with external decking, hot tubs, a barbecue area and car parking provided for each pod.

It added: “A business plan has been submitted with the application, which explains that due to uncertainties associated with dairy farming, the applicant has sought to diversify the farm enterprise to incorporate tourism accommodation.

“The application makes the case that the proposed development represents farm diversification. It is acknowledged that the development has resulted in the provision of an alternative type of holiday accommodation for which it has been demonstrated there is a demand, contributing to the diversity and quality of accommodation available within the county and supporting an existing farm business, with consequent economic and social benefits.

“Evidence has been provided that demonstrates the extent to which the pods have provided income which has been used to support the farm business.

“However, officers consider that should planning permission be granted, a [planning obligation] will be necessary to ensure that the accommodation pods continue to support the farm business and are not separated from it at some future point in time.”

Delegated conditional approval limiting the use and occupation of the self-catering accommodation pods to short term holiday use only was moved by Cllr Brian Hall and unanimously backed by committee members.

Business

First wind turbine components arrive as LNG project moves ahead

Published

13 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE FIRST ship carrying major components for Dragon LNG’s new onshore wind turbines docked at Pembroke Port last week, marking the start of physical deliveries for the multi-million-pound renewable energy project.

The Maltese-registered general cargo vessel Peak Bergen berthed at Pembroke Dock on Wednesday 26^th November, bringing tower sections and other heavy components for the three Enercon turbines that will eventually stand on land adjacent to the existing gas terminal at Waterston.

A second vessel, the Irish-flagged Wilson Flex IV, has arrived in Pembroke Port today (Thursday) carrying the giant rotor blades.

The deliveries follow a successful trial convoy on 25 November, when police-escorted low-loader trailers carried dummy loads along the planned route from the port through Pembroke, past Waterloo roundabout and up the A477 to the Dragon LNG site.

Dragon LNG’s Community and Social Performance Officer, Lynette Round, confirmed the latest movements in emails to the Herald.

“The Peak Bergen arrived last week with the first components,” she said. “We are expecting another delivery tomorrow (Thursday) onboard the Wilson Flex IV. This will be blades and is currently showing an ETA of approximately 03:30.”

The £14.3 million project, approved by Welsh Ministers last year, will see three turbines with a combined capacity of up to 13.5 MW erected on company-owned land next to the LNG terminal. Once operational – expected in late 2026 – they will generate enough electricity to power the entire site, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The Weather conditions were favourable for the arrival of the Wilson Flex IV, which was tracking south of the Smalls at midnight.

The abnormal-load convoys carrying the components from the port to Waterston are expected to begin early next year, subject to final police and highway approvals.

A community benefit fund linked to the project will provide for residents in nearby Waterston, Llanstadwell and Neyland.

Further updates will be issued by Dragon LNG as the Port of Milford Haven as the delivery programme continues.

Photo: Martin Cavaney

Business

Cardiff Airport announces special Air France flights for Six Nations

Published

17 hours ago

December 4, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Direct services to Paris-Charles de Gaulle launched to cater for Welsh supporters, French fans and couples planning a Valentine’s getaway

CARDIFF AIRPORT and Air France have unveiled a series of special direct flights between Cardiff (CWL) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) scheduled for February 2026.

Timed to coincide with two major dates — the Wales v France Six Nations clash on Saturday 15 February and Valentine’s weekend — the flights are designed to offer supporters and holidaymakers an easy link between the two capitals.

For travelling French rugby fans, the services provide a straightforward route into Wales ahead of match day at the Principality Stadium, when Cardiff will once again be transformed by the colour, noise and passion that accompanies one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited fixtures.

For Welsh passengers, the additional flights offer a seamless escape to Paris for Valentine’s Day, as well as opportunities for short breaks and onward travel via Air France’s wider global network.

Cardiff Airport CEO Jon Bridge said: “We’re thrilled to offer direct flights to such a vibrant and exciting city for Valentine’s weekend. Cardiff Airport is expanding its reach and giving customers fantastic travel options. We’ve listened to passenger demand and are delighted to make this opportunity possible. There is more to come from Cardiff.”

Tickets are already on sale via the Air France website and through travel agents.

Special flight schedule

Paris (CDG) → Cardiff (CWL):