Businesses across the UK have received timely geopolitical insight this week following the first emergency briefing delivered through the newly launched Diplomatic Advisory Hub, a joint initiative between the British Chambers of Commerce and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
The online session, attended by hundreds of businesses, explored the potential implications of the escalating conflict in the Middle East for UK firms, particularly those trading in or through the region. The briefing also marked one of the first public engagements of the new advisory service, which has been established to help businesses navigate an increasingly complex global trading environment.
Speakers included Richard Oppenheim, Director of the Diplomatic Advisory Hub; Stephen Hickey, former FCDO Director for the Middle East and North Africa; and Edward Hobart, UK Ambassador to the UAE. Together they provided an overview of developments across the region and the potential operational impacts for UK companies.
A key message from the session was:
- The importance of vigilance as the situation evolves;
- Businesses were advised to remain alert to potential disruption across both air and sea routes;
- Some airlines are already adjusting or suspending services in parts of the region, which may lead to reduced cargo capacity and longer indirect travel routes; and
- Maritime supply chains may also face extended transit times as some shipping companies consider alternative routes to avoid areas of instability.
In practical terms, this could mean longer lead times and increased costs for some businesses. For example, diversions around southern Africa rather than through key Middle Eastern shipping corridors could add up to two weeks to delivery schedules while increasing marine insurance and logistics costs.
Companies with staff travelling or working in the region were also encouraged to monitor updates issued by UK embassies and maintain regular safety check-ins with employees overseas, particularly as flight availability and safe air corridors continue to evolve.
The briefing coincided with the formal launch of the Diplomatic Advisory Hub this week. The new service brings together the extensive business network of the British Chambers of Commerce with the geopolitical expertise of UK diplomats, offering firms access to guidance, intelligence updates and tailored advice on international markets and global risks.
Commenting on the launch, Inverness Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Colin Marr said, “Events in the Middle East are a clear reminder that global developments can have very real consequences for businesses here in the Highlands, whether through supply chains, energy markets or international travel.
“The launch of the Diplomatic Advisory Hub is therefore incredibly timely. It gives businesses across the Chamber network access to trusted geopolitical insight directly from UK diplomats, helping them better understand risks, plan ahead and continue trading with confidence in an increasingly uncertain world.”
Led by former UK Ambassador Richard Oppenheim, the Hub represents the first time diplomats have been seconded into the British Chambers of Commerce network to work directly with businesses. It aims to act both as a gateway for companies seeking geopolitical advice and as a feedback channel so that insights from businesses can inform wider policy discussions.
Further briefings and events on key geopolitical developments are expected to take place across the Chamber network in the coming months.
Businesses interested in accessing support or learning more about the initiative can find further information via the Diplomatic Advisory Hub website.