Since the divorce from the EU, the UK has been struggling economically, with estimates saying that the split has reduced investment in the UK by 12 to 13 per cent.
To trade confidently with the EU while reducing risk and administration, businesses need effective financial and operational planning.
Cross-border trade adds complexity, including VAT obligations, customs requirements, currency exposure and supply chain efficiency. To avoid delays, penalties and unnecessary costs, businesses need a clear view of their costs, processes and compliance position.
Trade impacts from Brexit
During the referendum millions of Brits heard promised of free trade in the EU, however, since Brexit, trade between the EU and UK has become must more difficult.
Although the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) was introduced after Brexit with the aim of avoiding tariffs, customs checks and rules of origin requirements have added complexity to supply chains and caused delays for UK businesses trading with the EU.
Following the referendum, the pound fell by around 10 per cent, this weakened the UK’s terms of trade, making imports increasingly expensive.
Higher import costs then fed through to consumer prices, with the fall in sterling estimated to have cost the average UK household an additional £870 per year.
As trading costs increased, trade volumes declined, the TCA is estimated to have reduced UK goods exports to the EU by 10 to 15 per cent.
As a result, one in seven firms that traded with the EU before Brexit stopped doing so because of the impact of the TCA.
How to mitigate against Brexit related trade issues
Ten years after Brexit, many UK businesses still face challenges when trading with the EU, but practical steps can help reduce disruption.
Key actions include:
- Optimising customs procedures – Businesses can ease administrative bottlenecks by using automated customs platforms and real-time tracking. They should also review their supply chains to confirm that goods meet rules of origin requirements and qualify for tariff-free trade under the TCA.
- Managing regulations – In heavily regulated sectors, mutual recognition of conformity assessments can help avoid duplicate testing or compliance requirements in the UK and EU.
- Improving logistics and transport – Eligible businesses should consider applying for Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, which can support faster customs processing and priority treatment at borders.
- Localising supply chains – Reshoring critical component sourcing can help limit cross-border exposure and reduce delays.
We can help your business manage EU trade challenges ten years on from Brexit.
From import and export documentation to customs procedures, tax optimisation and supply chain strategy, we provide practical support tailored to your business.
If you want to trade with the EU more confidently while reducing risk and administration, get in touch to see how we can support your international growth.