The United Kingdom’s trade balance with non-EU countries showed a modest improvement in December 2025, with the deficit narrowing to £10.99 billion from £11.33 billion in November 2025. The latest figures, updated on 12 February 2026, indicate a slight easing in external imbalances at the end of the year.
While the trade balance remains firmly in negative territory, the December data suggest a marginal shift in the UK’s trade position outside the European Union. The reduced deficit could reflect relatively stronger export performance, softer import demand, or a combination of both, though the underlying drivers are not detailed in the latest release.
Analysts and market participants are likely to watch upcoming data closely to determine whether December’s narrowing marks the beginning of a sustained trend or a temporary adjustment in the UK’s non-EU trade dynamics.
