The UK Government has launched a Critical Import and Supply Chain Strategy in response to the significant disruptions witnessed in global supply chains over recent years.

The strategy focuses on five key priorities, demonstrating a commitment to fostering collaboration with businesses and international partners:

1. Making the UK government a centre of excellence for supply chain analysis and risk assessment.
2. Removing critical import barriers to support the UK’s business-friendly environment.
3. Building the UK’s response to global supply chain shocks.
4. Ensuring the UK can adapt to long-term trends.
5. Expanding collaboration between government, business, and academia.

Over 100 businesses were involved in the development of the strategy as the Government states it as the first of its kind.

Written in the foreword of the policy paper, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, Nusrat Ghani said: “The strategy sets out the actions we are already taking and our next phase of work to enable the efficient and reliable flow of critical imports.

“It is informed by two principles: our belief in the benefits of free trade; and the belief that it is first and foremost for businesses to manage their supply chains, with government intervention reserved for those areas where it is necessary, such as in cases of market failure. It also makes clear our commitment to putting joint working with the businesses at the centre of our approach.”

Read the full policy paper here.