Targeted use of taxation levers will be critical to unlocking economic growth in Northern Ireland, a Trade NI delegation will tell the UK Government at an event focusing on the Northern Ireland economy at Surveyors House, Westminster on 13 May 2026.
The annual delegation, sponsored by Danske Bank, will bring together around 200 business leaders and key decision-makers, providing a high-profile platform to outline the practical fiscal interventions needed to support Northern Ireland’s competitiveness.
At the centre of this year’s engagement is a new policy paper, Advancing Northern Ireland’s Economic Future, produced in partnership with BDO Northern Ireland. The report highlights the need for targeted action on the cost of doing business, skills and entrepreneurship, with a particular emphasis on how tax policy can be used to address structural challenges facing the local economy.
The document also calls on the UK Government to adopt a coordinated approach to competitiveness and combine targeted fiscal intervention with energy cost reform to address structural disadvantages, support business viability and strengthen long-term economic resilience in Northern Ireland.
Trade NI is the alliance of Hospitality Ulster, Retail NI and Manufacturing NI, representing the three largest sectors of industry and the majority of businesses in Northern Ireland.
Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster said:
“Our hospitality sector continues to operate under intense cost pressures, from VAT disparities to rising labour and energy costs. Yet it remains one of Northern Ireland’s most important employers and a key driver of tourism and regional economic activity.
“Our policy paper, developed by BDO Northern Ireland, provides a clear and evidence-based set of recommendations to improve competitiveness and deliver sustainable economic growth.
“This delegation is about engaging directly with government on practical solutions – such as a VAT change for Northern Ireland or a UK-wide VAT decrease – that would help level the playing field, sustain jobs and unlock further growth in the sector.”
Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive, Manufacturing NI said:
“The Apprenticeship Levy in its current form is not delivering for Northern Ireland. It is a taxation without the means for participation as the funding does not be recycled back into skills development in businesses.
“We need to rapidly reskill the workforce, the UK Government must reform how the levy operates, giving manufacturers access to its own money to invest in training and meet real business needs. That is a clear example of how smarter use of existing taxation can drive economic growth.”
Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive, Retail NI said:
“Retailers are facing a significant and immediate challenge from rising Employers’ National Insurance Contributions, which disproportionately impact labour-intensive sectors like ours.
“If left unaddressed, these increases risk undermining job creation, reducing hours, and placing further strain on already fragile high streets. We need the UK Government to recognise this impact and use the tax system to support, not hinder, local businesses and communities.”
Vicky Davies, Chief Executive, Danske Bank UK, said:
"Danske Bank is proud to sponsor the Trade NI delegation as it engages with policymakers in London on the key economic issues facing Northern Ireland. Encouraging collaboration with those who can positively influence the future growth of our economy is so important. We look forward to the event and to supporting the delegation's efforts to foster an improved trading environment for local businesses."
