Goods Barometer hits record high, confirming strength of trade recovery

Global merchandise trade is continuing its robust recovery from the shock of the COVID-19 pandemic according to the WTO’s Goods Trade Barometer, which hit a record high in its latest reading issued on 18 August. Read more →

UKEF backs first ever £430 million green transition loan for Wood Plc

The first-ever government-backed green transition loan has been awarded to engineering and consultancy firm Wood to seize new clean growth export opportunities. Read more →

Pessimism on globalisation, new WEF survey finds

Findings from the latest World Economic Forum/Ipsos’ market survey of almost 20,000 people in 25 countries show a mix of polarization and ambivalence throughout the world about free trade, globalization, and protectionist policies.  Read more →

Global economic data disappointments add to rising growth angst

US and international data releases are missing forecasts at an accelerating pace, highlighting rising investor angst that the spread of the Delta coronavirus variant will slow the pace of the global economic recovery. Read more →

United States gives USD 600,000 to boost negotiating capacities in developing countries

The United States has contributed USD 600,000 in 2021 to help developing countries and least-developed countries (LDCs) play a bigger role in global trade negotiations. Read more →

Contour announces partnership with GSBN to drive digitisation in the global shipping industry

Contour announces partnership with Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN) to offer an end-to-end digital solution that will create a seamless connection between the physical supply chain and the financial system. Read more →

UK rejects industry plea for visas for EU truck drivers

Ministers have rejected industry calls to allow EU migrants to fill the large hole in the UK labour market for lorry drivers, but accept that more training courses are needed to boost the number of hauliers. Read more →