Tariffs, tip-offs, and taxes: regulatory risks to watch in 2025

Whistleblower rewards, crypto crackdowns and a packaging revolution are just some of the regulatory shifts now reshaping the UK landscape. With financial crime enforcement intensifying and wide-ranging reforms advancing across trade, environmental compliance and advertising, businesses face growing pressure to stay compliant, agile and informed.

Are companies ready for rising trade tariffs? Does deforestation reform mean less red tape, or more risk, for importers? Will record pension surpluses trigger legal disputes over corporate access to funds? These are just some of the questions unpacked in the latest edition of Regulatory Radar, released today by international law firm RPC. Drawing on insights from the firm's legal experts, the June report scans the horizon for the most significant developments in the coming months.

Key changes include:

Whistleblowing and financial crime

HMRC's new policy could see whistleblowers paid up to 25% of tax recovered, creating stronger incentives for inside reporting. These changes are expected to drive an increase in tip-offs across sectors and heighten the need for effective internal controls.

Trade and tariffs

The US has reintroduced tariffs on key UK exports, prompting affected businesses to reassess pricing, sourcing and compliance strategies. The move carries significant implications for manufacturers, retailers and supply chains.

Packaging and extended producer responsibility

The UK's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime is now in force, bringing new packaging waste obligations with an estimated £1.1billion fees expected in its first year alone. The regime marks a seismic shift in how packaging-intensive sectors will operate.

Cryptoasset regulation

The FCA's consultation on a new UK cryptoasset framework signals a move toward more robust regulation. With further guidance due in July, businesses face increasing enforcement risk and greater compliance expectations.

Advertising and HFSS restrictions

Restrictions on advertising products high in fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) products have been delayed until January 2026, creating a prolonged period of legal uncertainty. Brands must navigate a complex regulatory landscape as they plan future marketing.

Defined benefit pension surplus reform

Record surplus levels in defined benefit (DB) pension schemes have renewed focus on how funds are accessed and used. Upcoming changes to the Pensions Schemes Bill are expected to clarify sponsor obligations and increase fiduciary oversight.

EU deforestation regulation

Recent updates to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) streamline reporting but place increased liability on large importers. Businesses must reassess risk management, particularly in relation to supply chain transparency and sustainability standards.

Corporate enforcement and bribery risk

The SFO's first-ever use of section 7 of the Bribery Act against an insurance firm marks a significant development in financial crime enforcement. The case signals a potential shift toward greater criminal prosecution in regulated sectors.

Partner and Head of Regulatory at RPC, Gavin Reese, commented: "This wave of regulatory reform is reshaping the business landscape – from whistleblowing and crypto to packaging, pensions and trade. The pace and complexity of these changes mean businesses must stay agile and proactive to remain compliant, competitive, and resilient. Staying ahead requires not just reacting to change, but anticipating risks and embedding resilience at every level."

The publication also highlights additional developments, including the introduction of Martyn's Law for public venues, ongoing delays to the UK's AI legislation, and continued debate over the Assisted Dying Bill.

For more insights and to read Regulatory Radar, click here.