4 Explain UK trend in trade over the last 30 years

Over the last 30 years, the UK has experienced a significant shift in its trade patterns. In the 1990s, the UK's main trading partners were European countries, with the EU accounting for around 60% of the UK's total trade. However, since then, the UK has diversified its trade relationships, with a growing focus on emerging markets such as China, India, and Brazil.

This shift has been driven by a number of factors, including the growth of these emerging economies, the increasing importance of services trade, and the UK's decision to leave the EU. As a result, the EU's share of the UK's total trade has declined to around 43%, while the share of non-EU countries has increased to around 57%.

In terms of specific sectors, the UK has seen significant growth in its services trade, particularly in areas such as financial services, creative industries, and professional services. At the same time, the UK's manufacturing sector has declined, with the country importing more manufactured goods than it exports.

Overall, the UK's trade patterns over the last 30 years reflect a broader trend towards globalization and the increasing importance of emerging markets in the global economy. However, the UK's decision to leave the EU and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may continue to shape the country's trade relationships in the years to come