Overview
The UK is introducing a range of new trade measures aimed at strengthening domestic industrial resilience while responding to changing global trade conditions. Recent developments focus on steel import protections, implementation of the UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and ongoing responses to international tariff measures affecting UK manufacturers. For manufacturers, the key issue is understanding how these measures affect import costs, supply chains, customs compliance and competitiveness.
Latest developments
- New steel trade measures: New UK steel import measures took effect on 1 July 2026, covering 20 steel product categories and introducing tighter tariff-rate quotas. Imports above quota face a 50% tariff.
- UK CBAM implementation: The UK CBAM is scheduled to take effect on 1 January 2027 and will apply to imports of iron and steel, aluminium, cement, fertiliser and hydrogen.
What this means for manufacturers
- Steel users may face tighter import quotas and higher costs on above-quota imports.
- Importers of CBAM-covered products will need to prepare for future carbon-reporting and compliance requirements.
What businesses should do
- Review exposure to UK steel import measures and quota restrictions.
- Identify products that may fall within the scope of the UK CBAM and begin collecting emissions-related data.
- Engage closely with suppliers, customs agents and logistics providers regarding tariff and customs changes.
- Review customs classification, origin documentation and import compliance procedures.
- Monitor updates on trade agreements, tariff measures and future UK trade policy developments.