12% of UK SMEs may relocate over taxes and regulations, seeking Ireland, Dubai, or the US.

A new report reveals that 12% of UK SME leaders—about 680,000 businesses—are considering relocating due to tax and regulatory pressures, with Ireland, Dubai, and the US top destinations. Nearly two-thirds believe the government isn’t doing enough to support growth, and 42% view current policies as unsupportive. Rising employment costs, including higher National Insurance and the National Living Wage, are key concerns. The findings come ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Autumn Budget, with many business owners fearing further tax increases could trigger job cuts and a broader exodus.