Businesses have criticised the additional red tape and increased costs that Brexit has imposed on firms importing and exporting goods to and from the continent. Importers of food and plants have been particularly affected by charges associated with new Brexit border checks introduced at the end of April. Additionally, other businesses have reported that the growing divergence in standards, such as those for construction products, has increased the cost of certifying UK products for sale on the continent.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, stated: “I’m not here to look backwards; I’m here to help build a better future for our business leaders and entrepreneurs. We must stop walking on eggshells and start saying it as it is. The current plan isn’t working for our members.
“The EU is the UK’s largest market, accounting for 42% of all our exports. Leaving the EU has made it more expensive and bureaucratic to sell our goods and services across the Channel. But better trading terms are possible if the UK government and the EU reach agreements in areas of mutual benefit for businesses on both sides.
“A better deal is best for everyone.”
