British Exporters Urge Government to Ease Post-Brexit Trade Frictions with EU

Nearly two-thirds of UK exporters find it more challenging to trade with the EU since last year, states the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). The organization urges the government to alleviate post-Brexit trade difficulties.

Despite Boris Johnson's TCA deal three years ago, BCC's mainly small business members still battle trade hurdles. From a survey, 60% said EU trade became tougher over the past year, versus 18% finding non-EU trade harder.

Only 14% believe the TCA aids business growth, while 49% disagree. BCC's trade policy chief, William Bain, notes Brexit's escalating compliance demands raise costs and paperwork.

The TCA promised tariff-free EU trade, but actual non-tariff barriers like customs and divergent standards arise. Businesses report complex food export rules and inconsistent customs enforcement.

The BCC's report also flags EU sanctions on Russian steel and the impending "carbon border adjustment mechanism," which will soon affect more sectors. The UK plans a similar carbon scheme.

Better EU collaboration on future regulations is BCC's solution for businesses struggling with the recent changes. Bain calls for proactive regulatory understanding.

While the issues aren't new, the BCC warns many businesses are oblivious to upcoming EU laws, like the carbon mechanism or new EU food import checks.

Labour's shadow business and trade secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, criticizes the government's uncertainty, claiming Labour's plan would support exporters through a small business export taskforce.

Contrarily, a government spokesperson insists UK businesses prosper post-Brexit, citing a 17.1% rise in EU exports over the past year and UK economic growth surpassing Germany and France. The government recognizes existing trade issues and pledges to seek EU collaboration for solutions.