Nearly GBP900 million of Wylfa SMR contracts have now been awarded, with more than 70% going to UK-registered companies. SMEs should watch the supply-chain signals, but prepare carefully before chasing the work.
The government is accelerating low-value import duty changes and consulting on wider online marketplace VAT liability. For UK small retailers, the key question is whether the reforms make competition fairer without adding new admin shocks.
HMRC says small businesses continue to represent the largest customer group in the UK tax gap. The practical message for SMEs is to tighten records, Corporation Tax processes and basic controls before errors become costly.
The CMA has fined StubHub UK and ordered refunds after mandatory fees were added late in checkout. SMEs should use the case as a pricing compliance check.
The UK has opened digital trade talks with Malaysia. SMEs selling software, services or advice online should watch data, paperwork, consumer protection and digital delivery rules.
The government has announced £50 million for UK critical minerals projects. Manufacturing, recycling, engineering and importing SMEs should watch where the funding lands and review exposure to key materials.
OPSS, UKHSA and HSE have issued a joint statement on asbestos in some sand-containing consumer products. Small retailers, importers and online sellers should check recall lists, stop affected lines and keep clear records of action taken.
HMRC and government departments have updated UK preferential tariff reference documents. SMEs that import from trade-agreement countries should check commodity codes, origin evidence and landed-cost assumptions before the next shipment.
The Bank of England has held Bank Rate at 3.75%, but energy price uncertainty means small businesses should still stress-test borrowing, cash flow and costs.
A new Insolvency Service study says Members’ Voluntary Liquidations are generally working effectively. For SME owners, the useful point is knowing when an MVL may be relevant, what it is designed to do, and why professional advice matters.