The Law Society of England and Wales’ <a href="https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/research/international-data-insights-report-2026" target="_blank" class="news-text_link">International Data Insights report</a>, published on 22 September 2026, says that the EU and the US together account for nearly two-thirds of UK legal services export revenue. It estimates that English law governs £250 trillion in global derivatives transactions, half of international seaborne trade and around 40% of international business and financial transactions.
The report identifies several indicators of London’s international position. The London Commercial Court delivered almost twice as many judgments as Dubai, its closest comparator and more than twice as many as New York. The London Maritime Arbitrators Association’s caseload rose by 16% in 2025 to its highest level in over a decade. English law was chosen in 13% of new cases before the International Chamber of Commerce Court of Arbitration, ahead of New York, Brazil and Switzerland. At the London Court of International Arbitration, 96% of cases involved at least one non-UK party.
Law Society president Mark Evans described the sector as an export strength that contributes billions to the UK economy and employs more than half a million people. He cautioned, however, that London’s international position should not be taken for granted as other jurisdictions invest in their courts and legal infrastructure. The Law Society is calling for continued UK government investment in the legal profession and justice system to support further growth.
