20/05/2026
A week after its launch to a record turnout in London, BDO NI is pleased to publish its latest report, “Advancing Northern Ireland’s Economic Future."
Produced in partnership with Trade NI, the report outlines policy recommendations and targeted fiscal interventions that look to address the cost of doing business, to stimulate entrepreneurship, and strengthen skills development across the region. Business leaders, policymakers, and public representatives have positively received the report as a constructive contribution.
This is the latest publication in BDO NI’s ongoing thought leadership programme, highlighting the resilience and performance of the NI business community. These achievements are particularly notable against a backdrop of historic underinvestment in infrastructure, ongoing challenges associated with the Windsor Framework, and comparatively higher energy costs than the rest of the UK.
Commenting on the report, BDO NI Managing Partner Brian Murphy said:
“Businesses in Northern Ireland deserve a level playing field. Measures such as VAT parity with the Republic of Ireland, alignment of energy support mechanisms, and the return of Apprenticeship Levy funding are critical components of the solution. Business rates reform, targeted high street support, and a fundamental review of Northern Ireland’s funding model are also urgently required. BDO NI and Trade NI believe that meaningful policy change and fiscal intervention will unlock additional inclusive growth and as a result, support the development of a more dynamic and prosperous regional economy.”
BDO NI and Trade NI are committed to advancing these recommendations and they will continue to work with stakeholders to secure a better foundation on which to grow Northern Ireland’s economy.
Read the full report here: https://www.bdoni.com/en-gb/insights/newsletter/advancing-northern-ireland-s-economic-future
