International Trade News for July 2025
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UK–India FTA Signed: A Milestone for Retail Exports
On 24th July 2025 the UK and India inked their Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually and boost UK GDP by £4.8 billion by 2040. This deal eliminates tariffs on key export sectors such as beauty, fashion, whisky and gourmet goods, enabling duty‑free access and stronger consumer market penetration. British brands now have a clearer route into India’s growing middle class, with tariff cuts on whisky falling from 150% to 40% gradually.
Source: AP News
UK–US Cross‑Border eCommerce Set to Grow 14% Annually
Exports from UK retailers to the US are forecast to grow at 14% per year through 2028, powered by small‑parcel shipments driven by direct-to‑consumer (DTC) eCommerce. As parcel volumes rise, retailers must ready scalable logistics and returns infrastructure. Cross‑border returns now often exceed 20% of an item’s value, making robust reverse logistics essential for margin protection.
Source: Cross Border Magazine
SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH: International Marketplaces
Launching on a new marketplace internationally? Our blog breaks down the 5 costly mistakes often made during marketplace setups — from ignoring cross-border potential to inefficient returns.
The 5 mistakes retailers make with marketplaces:
Expand Your eCommerce Business Internationally with Ease
Cross-border shipping can be complex, but GFS makes it simple. Our international delivery expertise helps you navigate customs, optimise costs, and ensure seamless global deliveries.
Ready to scale beyond the UK? Get expert guidance from David Pasley-Smith, Director of International Sales at GFS, who has successfully helped UK retailers expand internationally.
Expand Your eCommerce Business Internationally with Ease
Cross-border shipping can be complex, but GFS makes it simple. Our international delivery expertise helps you navigate customs, optimise costs, and ensure seamless global deliveries.
Ready to scale beyond the UK? Get expert guidance from David Pasley-Smith, Director of International Sales at GFS, who has successfully helped UK retailers expand internationally.