The latest official trade figures for August 2025 point to two-speed performance. Services exports continue to edge higher, whilst goods trade remains choppy. Businesses are still navigating tariff changes and unsettled demand across key markets.
The Office for National Statistics published its August 2025 bulletin on 16/10/2025. It reports a monthly fall in the value of UK goods exports, with declines to both EU and non-EU partners. Over the same period, early estimates suggest services exports ticked up slightly. The British Chambers of Commerce commented that services now account for more than half of UK exports, yet goods trade is in flux, with US-related tariff measures weighing on flows.
For UK traders, the picture is mixed. Services firms, including digital, professional and financial providers, are benefiting from steady international demand. Goods exporters face a tougher month, particularly in machinery, transport equipment and some chemicals. The overall trade balance in the three months to August reflects a wider goods deficit and a healthy, but not runaway, services surplus. Volatility in monthly data is normal, however repeated dips in goods shipments will pressure margins and forward orders if they persist.
Thames Valley has strength in both services and high-value manufacturing. Professional services providers across our region should continue to focus on contract structuring, data transfer readiness and market compliance. Manufacturers should check tariff exposure in the United States, plus EU demand conditions, and review pricing and Incoterms to protect margins. Where supply chains involve the US, explore options to adjust routings, product mix or timing of shipments to smooth exposure to tariff-linked disruption.
Action Steps for Traders
– Review August–October order books against tariff changes and customer forecasts.
– For goods exporters, revisit HS classifications and country routing to confirm duty liabilities remain correct.
– Services exporters should maintain documentation for cross-border delivery, client onboarding and VAT treatment.
– Sense-check exposure to the United States market and consider hedging for currency and freight costs.
How TVCC Can Help
Our Trade Question Time webinars unpack monthly trade trends and member questions. The Customs Helpline is available for classification, origin and documentation queries. For recurring pain points, our consultancy team can run a short diagnostic and propose targeted fixes.
For tailored guidance or to submit a question for our next Trade Question Time webinar,
contact trade@tvchamber.co.uk or call 01753 870560.
