By Rashmi Pandya, FCCA
Many businesses across the world are facing trade uncertainty and having to adapt their operations to changing tariffs and policies.
However, HSBC’s latest Global Trade Pulse Survey found that firms are becoming more resilient to trade obstacles and are rethinking their trading strategies.
With the right financial support and planning, your business can maintain long-term growth and not let trade uncertainty hold you back.
What challenges are global businesses facing?
HSBC gathered insights from 6,750 decision-makers across 17 markets and found that firms are changing their operations to remain competitive.
With confidence gradually increasing in the market, businesses revealed that they did not feel as much economic strain as they did in the first half of 2025.
The key findings included:
- More than 80 per cent of businesses are diversifying supply chains
- 67 per cent feel more certain about the impact of trade policies compared to six months ago
- 50 per cent are planning to enter new markets
- 77 per cent feel more confident in understanding policy changes
- Nearly 60 per cent forecast growth over the next two years
Even with these improvements, many firms, particularly across the US, India and the UK, are preparing for further increases in tariffs and shipping costs.
These growing pressures mean that your business must remain resilient to protect your revenue and avoid any unexpected financial liabilities.
How can businesses prepare for trade uncertainty?
Protecting your business could start by rethinking models and taking proactive steps to manage rising costs.
This can include diversifying operations and reassessing manufacturing and processing locations.
Also, investing in digital tools and AI can help manage rising operating costs and improve forecasting.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, these changes can bring your business an opportunity to improve your current operations and keep on growing.
How can businesses keep moving forward?
Global trade uncertainty is becoming a constant and it is important to stay informed about international policies and comply with changing rules.
Our team can help you update your contracts and supplier agreements and make sure your revenue expectations are reflective of the current market.
While these responsibilities can fall heavily on businesses, the right financial support can help make your trade opportunities easier to manage.
Looking for a clear strategy for international growth? Contact our team for advice.