In many ways, the world today looks very different from how it did 90 years ago, when a group of British business leaders and trade professionals came together to recognise that international trade was central to the UK’s future prosperity. But 1935 was also a time of deep uncertainty: the world was emerging from the Great Depression, navigating inter-war turbulence, and wresting with questions of economic security and national interest.
Fast forward to 2025, and while the context has changed, the challenges feel just as real: economic disruption, shifting alliances, and mounting global pressures. Yet, the mission that was forged all those years ago remains the same: to support trusted, rules-based trade that is open, responsible, and inclusive.
Ninety years later, in 2025, our mission is even more important and relevant, at a time when global challenges are rising. From geopolitics to environmental change, tariffs to technological shifts, businesses face increasing pressures across their supply-chains. But our commitment endures: we believe that trade is not just about the bottom line. It can also be a powerful catalyst for positive change; a way to bring people together, create shared prosperity, and deliver real societal impact.
Over the last 90 years, our focus has been to serve our members, to help them grow, to export to new markets, and to weather whatever challenges come their way. Our feats and achievements have been recognised by His Majesty King Charles III with the conferment of our Royal Charter. Now, as we mark our 90th anniversary, we must look ahead. How do we continue to help businesses navigate these turbulent times? How can we build the next generation of trade champions, and ensure that the benefits of trade reach every corner of our economy?
From our advisory services which offer strategic insights and fast answers, to our academy which supports learners to continue developing their skills, and our sector-leading in-person and virtual events programme, everything we do is focused on empowering our members to trade with confidence and resilience. We work every day to advise and support governments and regulators to establish the rules and regulations which create the best environment for business, and we continue to fly the flag for rules-based cross-border trade at home and overseas.
As we kickstart our 90th anniversary celebrations, we’re also launching our Trade Champions campaign, bringing together like-minded partners from across industry to promote international trade as a force for good in the world. This milestone is not just a moment for reflection and celebration; it’s a chance to reaffirm our mission, and to look forward with determination and optimism. Later this year, at our Import Export Show, we’ll reflect on the progress we’ve made, but even more importantly, look ahead to how we can together build on for the future
Trade is not just a transaction; it’s a bridge to our future. That’s the story of our first 90 years and together is the narrative we will continue to craft for many years to come.
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