The United Kingdom and the European Union have agreed a Trade and Cooperation Agreement governing future trade relations from 1 January 2021, that will see no tariffs or quotas on the movement of goods produced between the UK and the EU. A treaty was presented to Parliament in April 2021. Visit the .gov.uk website here to view the agreement in full.
Businesses should visit the Brexit guidance on .gov.uk website for the latest information and to check what actions their business will need to undertake, to continue trading with the EU.
If you move goods between Great Britain (GB) and countries in the European Union (EU), you might be affected when full customs controls came into effect on 1 January 2022.
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
If you have a specific question about importing, exporting or customs reliefs
Call HMRC Customs and International Trade helpline on 0300 322 9434. The helpline is open from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday and from 8am to 4pm at weekends. You can also send your questions or contact them by webchat.
HMRC have also created a series of webinars on various importing and exporting topics when trading with the EU. Please refer to our Business Events page to see the listing under UK Imports and Exports.
You can also watch help videos that are published on YouTube via the .gov.uk website.
BEST Growth Hub
The Business Essex, Southend & Thurrock (BEST) Growth Hub is government funded and now comes under Essex County Council. They help new and existing businesses find the most suitable type of business support available in their area.
For information on International Trade please visit the Essex County Council website
Essex Chambers
Please refer to their website, where they are offering business support and comprehensive guidance for businesses involved in International Trade.
Federation of Small Businesses – Transition Hub
The FSB Transition Hub is designed to support small businesses and the self-employed understand and prepare for what comes after the end of the UK/EU transition period.