Fuel excise delay highlights need for broader SME supports in Budget 2027

The postponement of the planned unwinding of the fuel excise supports will be welcomed by many businesses, particularly those for whom transport and fuel represent a significant day-to-day cost. With fuel prices already elevated due to the continued uncertainty in the Middle East, proceeding with the phased unwinding of supports in September would have added further pressure to already tight margins.

As we approach the Budget, businesses need a more targeted form of support to help them manage the range of cost pressures they are facing. The focus should be on more bespoke measures that address the wider cost base facing SMEs and give business owners greater capacity to absorb these pressures while continuing to invest, employ and remain competitive.