Dorset traders urged to get 'Brexit Ready'
New rules will come in from the 1st January, 2021.
Dorset's businesses are being urged to get ready for new rules as the Brexit deadline looms.
The UK's transition period for leaving the EU ends and new rules will come into force from the 1st of January 2021.
It means any businesses importing and exporting within the EU will have to face new customs regulations.
The Dorset Chamber of Commerce says it is particularly pressing for importers and exporters to have the correct paperwork in place.
Chief executive Ian Girling said:
“It is not easy for business at this moment in time.
“With the threat of a resurgent Coronavirus and continued uncertainty over Brexit, it is no wonder that some will have pushed preparations down their ‘to do’ list.
“But firms who trade with Europe will need customs declarations in place whatever happens.
“These are complex documents and necessary for importing and exporting, otherwise goods will just sit at customs.
“Our international trade department is fully qualified and highly experienced in dealing with this documentation for members and non-members.”
The plea comes as the Government launches a ‘time is running out’ campaign to raise awareness about new rules following Brexit.
As well as customs procedures, regulations covering VISAs, work permits, overseas employment, immigration and data may affect businesses.
The Chamber is working with the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership to bolster support on offer to businesses looking to grow through international trade.
Ian said:
“We intend to extend the remit of the Dorset Gateway business support service to handle questions around Brexit and international trade.
“Dorset LEP will also be funding a limited number of customs declarations for businesses having to complete these for the first time, subject to eligibility.”
Its international trade department helped Dorset businesses export over £92m worth of goods in the first nine months of this year.
Their Brexit hotline is 01202 714800.