On Monday 29 September 2025, coinciding with the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, the University of Liverpool Management School convened a high-profile event in collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade. Entitled 'Trade, Tariffs and Turbulence’, the session brought together leading voices to examine the evolving landscape of international trade and its implications for UK businesses.
The panel discussion was chaired by Carla Thomas, Deputy Cabinet Member for Policy Reform and Resources at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. She was joined by a distinguished panel comprising Sarah Edwards MP, Member of Parliament for Tamworth and the Villages and a sitting member of the Business and Trade Committee; Marco Forgione, Director General of the Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade; and Prof Giuseppe de Feo, Professor of Economics at the University of Liverpool Management School.
The conversation addressed recent developments in UK trade policy, the rise of global protectionism and the shifting dynamics of international trade. Panellists shared insights into the practical challenges faced by UK firms, including navigating complex tariff regimes, managing documentation requirements and absorbing the rising costs associated with cross-border trade.
A detailed analysis was presented on the impact of the United States’ ‘America First’ tariff strategy, with data indicating limited benefits to the US domestic manufacturing sector. Despite this, such tariffs are expected to persist, signalling a departure from established global trade norms and contributing to increased uncertainty. Retaliatory measures from major economies such as India and China were also discussed, though the UK was viewed as being in a comparatively resilient position.
Particular concern was raised regarding the difficulties faced by UK SMEs in responding to frequent changes in US tariff policy and the ongoing administrative burden of exporting to the EU post-Brexit. Panellists called for more robust government support and clearer trade policy frameworks to assist businesses of all sizes.
The discussion also touched on immigration policy, with a strong call to exclude international student numbers from official UK immigration statistics. The panel acknowledged the significant economic and societal contributions made by international students, noting that tuition fee income helps sustain domestic education provision and that students enrich UK society more broadly.
Hazel Kennedy, External Engagement Manager at the Management School, commented: “It was a pleasure to collaborate with the Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade on this timely and highly relevant event. Our panellists spoke knowledgably, highlighting how global trade developments affect everyone—from business leaders to everyday consumers. Despite ongoing volatility, it appears tariffs are set to remain a feature of the international trading environment.”