The EU transition period has ended: how to keep your business moving
4 January 2021
The transition period has ended and the UK has left the EU customs union and single market . The UK now enjoys a zero tariffs, zero quotas relationship with the EU.
Following the signing of the UK – EU Free Trade Agreement, there are new rules for businesses which came into force on 1 January 2021 which require immediate action. By acting now to comply with the new rules, you can avoid interruptions to your business operations.
The Hub’s EU transition web pages include the latest government guidance detailing actions that businesses must take to ensure they are compliant with the new rules. Part A provides an overview of key actions for businesses as well as supporting guidance, helpline numbers and FAQs. Part B lists the top five actions for businesses in each of the following sectors: Aerospace, automotive, chemicals, construction, consumer goods, electronics and machinery, life sciences, metals and materials, professional business services and retail.
- BRO briefing Part A – business actions by topic, support and guidance
- BRO briefing Part B – top five action lists for 10 sectors
You can also visit gov.uk/transition to access a checker tool to quickly identify the actions that your business needs to take. The checker tool will ask you questions about your business and provide all the information you need to be aware of such as new rules on:
- Importing and Exporting
- Moving goods to and from Northern Ireland including Trader Support Service
- Travelling abroad for work
- Hiring staff from the EU
You can help prepare your businesses for the new rules by using a number of support mechanisms provided by the Government:
- Sign up to receive updates on the specific actions you need to take once you’ve used the checker tool at uk/transition
- Sign up to receive the regular Business Readiness Transition Bulletin – an email newsletter providing information on major announcements and recently published guidance
- BEIS Webinars across a range of topics will be available on gov.uk in January 2021. They will provide specific advice on how businesses can ensure they comply with the new rules.
GC Business Growth Hub is here to support businesses as we become an independent trading state. Find out more information on our dedicated EU Exit site here.