Logistics UK has welcomed the government’s newly published Trade Strategy, calling its vision for growth “positive”, but warned that unless the logistics sector is placed at the core of its implementation, the plan may fall short of its destination.
Commenting on the announcement, Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade and Devolved Policy at Logistics UK, said: “The Trade Strategy sets a positive overall direction of travel for growth, but the logistics sector needs to be intrinsic to the tactical delivery plans if the government’s growth ambitions are going to arrive at the intended destination, on time.”
Highlighting the opportunity for boosting exports, Mallon noted that excessive border red tape has pushed many UK businesses to focus solely on the domestic market.
She said modernising customs is long overdue and welcomed moves toward digitalisation, especially the promise of a single trade window.
“It is essential that further detail is provided and this happens as soon as possible to reduce the considerable data burden and border friction on businesses, particularly SMEs,” she said, adding that coordinated government action is needed to encourage UK firms to start exporting again.
The strategy also includes plans to establish a new Supply Chains Centre and an Economic Security Advisory Service, steps that Logistics UK sees as encouraging for boosting resilience.
However, Mallon stressed that to be effective, these must be developed collaboratively with the logistics sector and recognise the vital role of the UK’s international trade gateways — part of the country’s Critical National Infrastructure.
“Over the coming weeks, we will continue our work with the government to ensure when the Trade Strategy is implemented it has the necessary detail to address the practical aspects that hit trade such as excessive delays and checks, incompatible IT systems and complicated customs processes,” Mallon added.
Logistics UK represents a wide range of transport and supply chain operators across road, rail, sea and air, playing a vital role in keeping the UK economy moving.
The group advocates for safe, efficient and sustainable logistics and represents businesses responsible for moving goods across borders, warehouses and high streets.