The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) has called on the Government of the UK to adopt decisive and strategic measures to spur economic growth, enhance fiscal stability, and increase productivity ahead of the upcoming Autumn Budget.

CIMA presented 27 recommendations across five key areas aimed at fostering a resilient economy, in its submission to HM Treasury.

Its proposals focus first on obtaining sustainable economic growth by raising policy certainty to encourage investment in the long term.

Additionally, CIMA has suggested publishing a business tax and regulatory roadmap to decrease uncertainty; extending Full Capital Expensing to include leased and second-hand assets.

Other proposals include introducing targeted investment incentives such as a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) Investment ISA.

CIMA also recommends reviewing regional stock exchanges to facilitate better accessibility to finance.

For tax reform, the institute advocates streamlining the tax system in the UK by removing problematic cliff edges and distortions that have been exacerbated by fiscal drag.

It proposes broadening of the Corporate Tax Roadmap to encompass individual as well as property taxation, minimising the Employer National Insurance Contribution rate, and adjusting VAT thresholds for improved SME support.

CIMA chief executive Andrew Harding said: “The Autumn Budget 2025 presents a critical opportunity for the UK to strengthen its economic foundations. The Chancellor has an opportunity to chart a course that will promote economic growth and increase business and consumer confidence – the UK cannot afford to miss this opportunity.

“By adopting the policy recommendations outlined in this submission – focused on stability, investment, skills, productivity, and support for SMEs – the government can respond to immediate challenges while building long-term resilience.”

Addressing skills shortages and productivity issues, CIMA recommends revising apprenticeship funding to offer backing to learners up to 25 years of age and increasing learning loan entitlements for a lifelong period to include professional education.

The establishment of a national Productivity Commission is also proposed, with the aim of better aligning investment, innovation, and policy across the country.

On public finances and inflation management, CIMA urges expediting the development of skills and digital transformation within the public sector to enhance outcomes and bolster productivity.

The institute also stresses the importance of ensuring alignment between fiscal as well as monetary policy in order to manage inflation.

Recently, CIMA commented on the government’s decision to shift AML/CTF supervision responsibilities to the Financial Conduct Authority. While this outcome does not fully reflect CIMA’s own recommendations, it acknowledged the complexity present in the current supervisory structure.