Preparing for Brexit
The ASBCI has been contacted by the Cabinet Office and PR agency 32Red in connection with the Government’s public information campaign to raise awareness and understanding of what is required, and to encourage businesses to check the guidance and make the necessary changes to prepare. These are the keys points they wish to communicate:
The UK has left the EU and the transition period will end on 31 December 2020. This will mean new arrangements with the EU and the rest of the world, for which businesses and individuals need to prepare.
The end of the transition will change how all companies conduct business with the EU. As the EU is leaving the Single Market and the Customs Union, many of these changes will be required regardless of any agreement that is reached with the EU on the future trade relationship. Therefore, businesses should not wait on a trade agreement before taking action.
Key steps to take include:
Check if Import VAT is due at the border. Your business could face delays, disruption, or administrative costs if you do not comply with new customs procedures from 1 January 2021. If you import goods from the EU, check the guidance related to imports: https://www.gov.uk/prepare-to-import-to-great-britain-from-january-2021
Use GOV.UK to identify how your business can be ready to sell certain goods in the UK and EU. You may not be able to sell your goods in the UK and the EU if you do not comply with the relevant goods regulations and standards from 1 January 2021. If you export goods to the EU, check the guidance related to exports:
https://www.gov.uk/prepare-to-import-to-great-britain-from-january-2021
Get ready to make customs declarations. Import and export declarations are complicated, requiring specialist skill, knowledge, and IT. If you are not able to make declarations or provide the wrong information, your business could face delays, disruption, or administrative costs.
Business should consider if any potential changes to the eligibility for unregistered designs rights in the UK and the EU will impact their business.
If you employ overseas nationals, you will need to prepare your business for the implementation of the new immigration system.
To find out how your business will be impacted, www.gov.uk/transition
