Gentle uptick in economic growth during second quarter - Chamber
There was a gentle uptick in economic growth in the second quarter of 2025 thanks to a stronger than expected performance in June, according to figures released today.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said GDP expanded by 0.3 per cent in the three months to June.
Although it marks a slowdown from the first three months of the year when GDP rose by 0.7 per cent, it’s a stronger performance than expected – with most economists predicting slower growth because of Donald Trump’s trade tariffs.
Economists polled by Reuters had only anticipated GDP expansion of 0.1 per cent across April to June.
The figure was boosted by a strong June, when GDP rose by 0.4 per cent across the month.
The faster-than-expected growth was down to better performance from the services and construction sectors, which grew at 0.4 per cent and 1.2 per cent respectively in the quarter – although production output, which includes manufacturing, fell.
Ruth Fleet (pictured), senior policy advisor at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “June’s GDP growth of 0.4 per cent continues the gentle uptick in the economy that we have seen throughout 2025 in the face of complex international circumstances.
“That growth was seen across services, manufacturing and construction is a positive sign, as previous months have relied on success in one or other of the sectors to compensate for contraction in other areas.
“We are also seeing greater confidence in the markets from the range of trade deals completed by the Government since May.
“Despite this, data from our Quarterly Business Report show that businesses in Greater Birmingham are still struggling with various pressures across recruitment, corporate taxation, cashflow and investment.
“As we approach the Autumn Budget, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce will continue to advise against further taxes being raised from businesses.
“We are also offering firms support via our Business Growth Studio toolkit, designed to give businesses the essential tools to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”
