Hello, As 2025 continues at full pace, we are excited to bring you some of the latest insights and resources designed to support your business in maximising the potential of trade opportunities. We're your one-stop shop for all things trade - both domestic and international. In this edition, we will be focusing on how the macroeconomic outlook of the UK economy will affect your business, while highlighting some practical tips to kickstart your international trade journey. Whether you are looking to learn more about importing to a new market or choosing new international suppliers, Lloyds' practical guides below are packed with information to support your business as you fulfil your trade ambitions. We also work closely with UK Export Finance (UKEF) to support your export business by providing access to working capital to help grow your firm. Thought Leadership: UK SECTOR TRACKER FEBRUARY 2025 At Lloyds, we have our finger on the pulse of the UK economy. We're helping businesses to understand the UK's macroeconomic outlook, delving into trends in key areas such as growth, confidence, business demand, the employment environment, and inflation. The UK Sector Tracker delivers monthly proprietary insights into the evolving trajectory of the UK economy and its key sectors. The latest report highlights a comprehensive assessment of the economic backdrop, and how this may affect your business going forward. Some of the key highlights include: • 13 sectors reported lower in January, which is the most widespread downturn since May 2020 • Most sectors noted further declines in new orders, leading to cutbacks in labour and reduced input-buying by manufacturers • Output expectations were below long-run averages across all sectors with inflationary pressures seen as a key challenge. Subscribe today Practical tips to kickstart your international trade journey Check out the steps to make importing work for you Import Guide Learn how to sell your products or services globally UK Export Webinar Boost and reduce risk for exporting around the world Export Guide Improve Cash Flow for Confident Trading Protect & Finance Lloyds-UKEF Partnership: Here to support your export business UK Export Finance (UKEF) is the UK's export credit agency, working to provide support and assistance to UK-based exporters. At Lloyds, we work closely with UKEF to help clients achieve their trade ambitions and we were recently the Gold Sponsor at the annual UK Trade & Export Finance Forum in London. We are delighted to share with you a short video from Ralph Edwards, Managing Director and Head of Trade Sales at Lloyds, who recently attended the conference and shared his experience of both the event, as well as the wider trade landscape within the UK. Click here to watch now UK seeks business views on response to US tariffs UK businesses will be given the opportunity to input into the UK's response to US tariffs announced. Following the 10% reciprocal tariffs on a range of goods announced by the US administration, UK companies are being invited to give their views on what any future UK response should look like by providing feedback to questions asking them the average value of their US imports, the impact of any possible UK tariffs and how they would adjust to them. Businesses are being asked to share their views by 1 May here. Click here to read now ACCESS THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE PORTAL Whether you're just starting out as an importer or exporter, or are an established international trading business, Lloyds International Trade Portal provides detailed insight into domestic and international markets, trade networks, and business opportunities. Login today That's a wrap! Keep your eyes peeled for the next edition of the newsletter. Contact Us For more information on our services to help you with your trade journey! The information on the International Trade Portal is provided for general guidance only, and should not be relied upon as specific advice. Security Information Please note that Lloyds Bank NEVER send emails that ask for confidential or security information. Lloyds Bank plc Registered Office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered in England and Wales no. 2065. Telephone: 0207 626 1500. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under Registration Number 119278. Eligible deposits with us are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). We are covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). Please note that due to FSCS and FOS eligibility criteria not all business customers will be covered.