As this shows, exports are foundational to the business model of the sector. As such, Walpole has a highly developed programme of international work beyond public policy. Walpole works closely with the UK government to support a favourable trading environment, and ensure that the government is able to access the insight and information member businesses hold about trading conditions around the world.
However, sometimes trade policy can bring challenges to luxury businesses, such as the US retaliatory tariffs on whisky and cashmere in 2021. At the time, Walpole – along with many members and other businesses – was successful in working with the government to bring an end to these tariffs which were a significant burden on luxury businesses.
In light of recent threats to global trade, and the resurgence of the threat of tariffs with one of our biggest markets, Walpole is engaging intenstively with government stakeholders and working with partners to address these challenges as quickly as possible.
