Northern Ireland businesses keep trading edge despite rising pressures

Most Northern Ireland firms are maintaining healthy trading positions even as they face rising input costs, persistent recruitment challenges, and lingering trade frictions. The latest NI Chamber and BDO NI survey shows that three quarters are performing well, with manufacturing slightly more upbeat than services on turnover prospects. However, profitability confidence has dipped, and over half report slowing demand. Labour market tightness is acute, with difficulties in hiring climbing across both sectors. Uncertainty over proposed US tariffs and mixed sentiment on the EU–UK trading reset are adding to the strategic complexity. Despite these headwinds, many businesses are showing resilience, with opportunities ahead if clarity, collaboration, and targeted government support can be secured.

Read the full analysis to see how these trends could shape strategic decisions in the months ahead.