Logistics industry experts Logistics UK respond to Anti-Growth Budget
Commenting on Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ announcement in the Budget of an increase in fuel duty from September 2026, Logistics UK Acting Chief Executive Kevin Green said,
“Instead of nurturing the green shoots of economic recovery, the government risks stamping them out. The increase in fuel duty announced in the Budget will mean hundreds of millions in increased taxes for logistics businesses, much of which will be passed onto households and businesses, as well as hitting motorists directly – fuelling inflation across the economy. It is a short-sighted decision that fails to appreciate logistics’ role in the economy – logistics costs are embedded in all products from food and medicines to construction materials and consumer goods: increasing logistics taxes mean increased costs for everyone.
“Logistics businesses already pay around £5.5 billion a year in fuel duty – increasing the tax burden on our industry shows a disregard for a sector that generates £170 billion for the UK economy, employs over 8% of the nation’s workforce and is key to the government’s growth agenda. We urge the Chancellor to reconsider this decision at the earliest possible opportunity, or risk an inflationary impact right across the economy in the spring.”
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Speaking at a function today (20 November 2025) at the port to celebrate the event, Clemence Cheng, Executive Director of Hutchison Ports and Port of Felixstowe CEO, said:
In an unusual pre-Budget speech in Downing Street, Reeves did not rule out a U-turn on Labour’s general election manifesto pledge not to hike income tax, VAT or National Insurance.
Launched Tuesday 21 October at Logistics UK’s Digital Transformation in Logistics conference in Birmingham, the roadmap challenges innovators to develop creative and technological solutions to real world problems that will have material benefits for the logistics sector and wider UK economy.
Taking place from 3rd to 7th November, International Trade Week 2025, is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors: from those looking to secure their first international contract, to experienced exporters keen to increase sales in new or existing markets.