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HSBC Global Trade Pulse Survey
Global businesses adapting to trade uncertainty and building resilience
Business leaders worldwide have grown more confident about international trade compared to six months ago. This is driven by the adoption of new strategies, deployment of new technologies, and exploration of new markets.
However, uncertainty surrounding the global economic and political landscape continues to challenge corporate decision-making. Rising costs and widespread liquidity pressures remain key concerns.
Following the release of the first report in May 2025, this latest edition provides fresh insights from 6,750 business leaders across 17 markets survey conducted in October 2025.
Are businesses showing signs of stabilisation? What strategies are driving their success. Download the report to uncover the answers.
Global Trade Pulse
Vivek Ramachandran
Head of Global Trade Solutions, HSBC
Improving sentiment shows that businesses are responding effectively to ongoing trade shifts and demonstrating strong resilience. Rather than wait for uncertainty to subside, we can see that business leaders are actively deploying a range of strategies as they adapt to this new normal.
Key Insights
The report reveals six key themes emerging:
Adapting to the New Normal
67% are feeling more certain around trade policy affecting their business than they were six months ago.
Widespread Impact
66% expect increased costs over the next six months due to tariffs and trade uncertainty.
Diverse Coping Strategies
84% are either already diversifying suppliers (expanding the number of suppliers across different regions) or are planning on doing it.
Uneven Preparedness Levels
52% business in US saying they are well informed and prepared vs 35% of companies in Europe and 32% in East Asia and North Asia.
Liquidity Takes Centre Stage
67% have used more short-term financing to address their working capital needs.
Global Ambition Endures
1 in 2 are planning to enter new markets.
Download the reports to find out more
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Global Trade Solutions
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