UK climbs to 11th in global manufacturing output rankings
September 11
09:30
2025
The UK has climbed to 11th in global manufacturing rankings,with output valued at $279 billion, as the sector continues to punch above its weight, according to UK Manufacturing: The Facts 2025, a new report from Make UK. The report provides a sector-by-sector breakdown of UK manufacturing; export trends and international trade relationships; regional performance and economic impact; employment, wages, and workforce insights; and a comparative analysis with global manufacturing leaders.
Key highlights from the 2025 report include:
- Global Standing: UK rises one spot to 11th in global manufacturing output
- Export Partners: 7 of the top 10 export destinations are in the EU, with the US still leading as the largest single market
- Sector Strength: Food & Drink and Transport dominate as the UK’s largest manufacturing sub-sectors
- Regional Leaders:
- North West England tops the charts for total output
- Wales leads in manufacturing’s share of regional GDP
- Salary Surge: Average manufacturing wages up nearly 7%, now significantly outpacing both services and the broader economy.
Manufacturing remains a vital engine of the UK economy – driving innovation, exports, and high-quality employment. The report offers policymakers, business leaders, and industry professionals the data they need to shape the future of British manufacturing.
Verity Davidge, Director of Policy, Make UK, commented: “These figures reflect not just the importance of manufacturing to the economy but factors and trends which are redrawing the contours of the global economy at an accelerating rate. These trends reinforce why it was vital to introduce a long term industrial strategy to take competitive advantage of our undoubted strengths. This will ensure the UK retains its place at the top table of advanced manufacturing where it has many world class sectors.”
