Cyber risks and steel tariffs – what’s shaping manufacturing logistics right now
It’s been a busy start to October in the logistics world. From factory restarts to tariff talks, several stories this week highlight how interconnected the supply chain really is – and how efficiency, resilience and sustainability all depend on each other.
Jaguar Land Rover restarts production after cyber attack
Production is slowly resuming at Jaguar Land Rover’s Solihull, Halewood and Wolverhampton sites following a major cyber incident that brought operations to a standstill. The manufacturer has also announced faster supplier payments to ease the pressure on smaller firms affected by the outage.
It’s a timely reminder that digital resilience has become part of supply chain resilience. When systems stop, so do shipments – and the disruption isn’t only financial. Every cancelled delivery and redirected truck adds to emissions that could have been avoided.
Protecting logistics data and digital infrastructure is now another way of keeping operations – and carbon footprints – under control.
Supply chain cyber threats on the rise
A new CIPS survey reports that nearly one in three senior UK business leaders has seen an increase in cyber attacks along their supply chains this year.
With more manufacturing logistics now running on cloud platforms and automated booking systems, this risk is only growing.
It’s a good moment for logistics teams to look at where their data sits, who has access and how systems link together. A few small checks can make a big difference to continuity and carbon efficiency alike.
EU plans new steel import tariffs
The European Commission has proposed halving its tariff-free quota for steel imports and introducing a 50 per cent tariff beyond that – a move that would directly affect UK exports to the EU.
For manufacturers that rely on steel or aluminium components, this could mean higher input costs and a rethink of sourcing routes.
There’s also an environmental angle here: shifting to shorter supply routes or lower-carbon materials could help balance both cost and emissions. Efficient logistics planning will play a central role in how manufacturers adapt.
Road freight costs and compliance under review
The DVSA has opened a consultation on HGV and trailer MOT fees, closing on 21 November 2025. Even small cost changes can affect haulage rates and, in turn, manufacturers’ freight budgets.
With rail freight capacity increasing on corridors such as Felixstowe to Nuneaton, there’s an opportunity to consider greener alternatives where routes allow. Mode choice is no longer just about cost – it’s about long-term resilience.
New UK product regulation powers in place
The Product Regulation and Metrology Act 2025 has now received Royal Assent, giving the UK greater control over product and measurement standards. Manufacturers can expect tighter alignment with sustainability reporting and packaging compliance over the next year.
For logistics, this will mean more focus on accurate documentation and traceable materials. It’s another sign that data and environmental responsibility are becoming inseparable in supply chain management.
What manufacturers should take away this week
- Cyber resilience equals carbon efficiency – a secure, stable supply chain avoids wasteful disruptions.
- Monitor trade shifts – new tariffs and product rules will alter sourcing and routing patterns; carbon and cost planning should go hand in hand.
- Use the data you already collect – from freight tracking to emissions reporting – to spot risk patterns early.
As members of BIFA, and represented globally through FIATA, we keep an eye on both the UK and international policy landscape so our clients don’t have to.
Efficient logistics isn’t only about moving goods faster – it’s about moving them smarter, safer and cleaner. If your production plans depend on reliable, lower-carbon logistics, talk to our team about how to keep shipments moving smoothly through the months ahead.
We combine practical freight expertise with transparent carbon tracking to help manufacturers plan confidently – even when the wider industry is shifting.