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Britain’s economy recorded stronger-than-expected growth in June 2026, supported by easing concerns over the Iran war, the men’s soccer World Cup and hot weather, according to official figures released Thursday.
UK gross domestic product (GDP) increased 0.3% month on month in June after showing no growth in May. Economists surveyed by Reuters had expected GDP to remain unchanged. The performance put Britain on track to deliver the strongest first-half growth among Group of Seven economies.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said businesses reported fewer disruptions related to the Iran war during a temporary ceasefire. Meanwhile, the World Cup provided a boost to alcoholic drinks producers, food companies, television production and advertising. Retailers and some manufacturers also benefited from warmer weather.
Services, which make up the largest part of the UK economy, expanded 0.4% in June. However, industrial production fell 0.2%, while construction output declined 0.1%.
Across the second quarter, covering April through June, the UK economy grew 0.4%. That marked a slowdown from 0.6% growth during the first quarter but matched economists’ expectations and remained relatively strong. Household consumption and business investment also increased.
Despite the positive UK GDP figures, economists remain cautious about the outlook. The Bank of England had forecast second-quarter growth of 0.3% and estimates underlying economic growth at around 0.1%. It expects growth to stall during the July-to-September quarter.
Economic pressures have also intensified following renewed conflict with Iran, which has driven energy prices higher. Analysts warn that uncertainty surrounding potential tax increases in Finance Minister John Healey’s first budget on October 28 could further weigh on businesses and households.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who succeeded Keir Starmer following his July resignation, has pledged to reduce business costs and tackle household cost-of-living pressures amid a challenging fiscal environment.
Separate ONS trade figures showed that inflation-adjusted UK fuel imports reached their highest level since December 2022 in June, highlighting continued exposure to global energy market volatility.
