A range of new advice and guidance is available from Government following the end of the EU transition period. This article lists the key sources of advice for businesses in the retail sector. These documents are available via www.GOV.UK/transition with direct links below.

 

They sit alongside the Government Brexit checker tool which you can use to obtain personalised actions for your business: https://www.gov.uk/transition-check/questions

 

 

Key actions for retail:

 

1. Get paper work in place to trade with the EU

To continue trading with the EU, businesses need to follow new rules for importing and exporting, including changes to customs processes and licensing.

Before they attempt to move goods, businesses will need to get ready to make customs declarations – these are now needed for all exports from the UK and if businesses are importing controlled goods. If they import goods that are not controlled, they may be able to delay making their declarations for up to six months.

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/topic/business-tax/import-export 

 

2. Understand contractual obligations and responsibilities with customers and suppliers

When trading across borders, businesses should make sure they understand who in their supply chain is responsible for declarations, VAT and duties.

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/international-trade-paperwork-the-basics

 

 

3. Understand requirements for placing goods on the market

Businesses should use GOV.UK to check rules on manufactured goods, such as marking requirements and approvals needed, to ensure their business can sell them on the GB and EU markets.

Find out more: www.gov.uk/guidance/placing-manufactured-goods-on-the-market-in-great-britain

 

 

4. Check that their goods comply with rules of origin and that they have the required evidence to trade tariff-free with the EU

Businesses need to take action to access zero tariffs. They must check that their goods comply with rules of origin requirements, make a declaration and ensure they have the correct evidence if they wish to claim preferential tariff rates when trading with the EU.

 

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claiming-preferential-rates-of-duty-between-the-uk-and-eu

 

 

Who can I ask for help?

 

For further advice and access to specialist support, businesses in Swindon and Wiltshire can contact SWLEP Growth Hub’s business readiness team via:

 

Tel:      01249 477 288

Email:  [email protected] 

Web:   https://growthhub.swlep.co.uk/support/EUExit