The British Chambers of Commerce downgraded UK growth forecasts, citing “weaker outlook for trade and investment” as main reasons. Key points in the new forecasts:
- 2018 GDP growth at 1.1%, down from 1.3%. 2019 GDP growth at 1.3%, down from 1.4%. 2020 GDP growth at 1.6%, unchanged.
- 2018 exports growth at 1.7% only, down from 2.8% in prior forecast.
- 2018 total investment growth at 1.4%, down from 1.8%. 2019 at 1.4% and 2020 at 1.5%.
- BoE expected to hike in Q1 2019 and Q2 2020. Bank rate to hit 1.25% by the end of the forecast period.
Quote from Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC):
“UK economy as a whole is set to grow at a snail’s pace. Brexit uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on many firms, as most of the practical questions facing trading businesses remain unanswered. The lack of precision on the nature of the UK’s future relationship with the EU is lowering expectations for both business investment and export growth.”
“The drag effect on investment and trade would intensify in the event of a ‘messy’ and disorderly Brexit”
“A deal with Brussels won’t deliver stronger UK growth on its own. The Prime Minister and the Chancellor must now pull out all the stops here at home to bolster business confidence, slash costs, and crowd in investment.”
Full release here.
