British Chambers of Commerce calls for key measures to reduce post-Brexit friction, urging Starmer to ease trade complexities and boost growth

UK businesses are intensifying their calls for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to overhaul the UK’s post-Brexit relationship with the European Union, arguing that the current deal is stifling growth and increasing operational complexities. According to a new survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), only 15% of over 1,100 businesses believe the existing trade deal with the EU helps them expand their sales in the bloc.

Shevaun Haviland, Director-General of the BCC, stressed that the changes businesses need “cannot come soon enough.” Companies are struggling with the increased burden of paperwork and regulatory requirements, which have been exacerbated by Brexit. As a result, many firms are facing significant barriers to smooth trade with the EU.

The BCC outlined five key measures they believe Starmer should pursue in order to reset relations with the EU. These include simplifying customs procedures, reducing non-tariff barriers, and creating a youth mobility programme to allow easier movement for workers. These changes are viewed as essential for boosting trade and economic growth, particularly as businesses grapple with the post-Brexit landscape.

The survey also revealed that many businesses feel disconnected from the current trade arrangements, which they argue are not conducive to growth. With concerns about rising costs and logistical challenges, companies are eager for a more streamlined relationship with the EU.

As the government faces growing pressure from businesses, the question remains whether Starmer will heed these calls and deliver a new deal that can rejuvenate the UK’s post-Brexit economy.

THE GUARDIAN

UK exporters are still facing challenges due to post-Brexit trading rules, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). A survey of over 1,000 businesses revealed that only 15% believed the EU trade and cooperation agreement (TCA) had boosted their sales with the EU, while 40% said it had not. The survey also highlighted key areas where businesses want changes, including easier movement of UK staff to the EU, with 46% of respondents in favour.

Shevaun Haviland, BCC’s director general, emphasized the need for a closer EU relationship to reduce trade barriers and help offset the negative impacts of the higher taxes from Rachel Reeves’s recent budget. Haviland also called for a youth mobility deal between the UK and EU, which would allow workers to move freely between the regions—something the government has so far rejected.

Other concerns raised by businesses included simplifying VAT requirements and ensuring mutual recognition of professional qualifications, enabling UK professionals to work across the EU. The BCC warned that ongoing changes in EU rules could further disrupt trade unless the UK aligns with these evolving standards.

FINANCIAL TIMES

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has urged UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to agree to a “comprehensive” youth mobility pact with the EU as part of upcoming negotiations to ease trade barriers. This call comes ahead of the “reset” talks next year aimed at improving the UK-EU trading relationship. The BCC’s report lists 13 recommendations, with the youth mobility deal being a key point. However, the Labour government has previously ruled out such a pact, despite the EU’s insistence on its importance. Other recommendations include simplifying business travel, a VAT cooperation agreement, and aligning the UK’s and EU’s carbon trading systems.

BCC Director-General Shevaun Haviland emphasized the need for concrete action to drive economic growth, highlighting that a 1% growth in exports could significantly improve the economy’s performance. The BCC’s proposals also focus on reducing paperwork, providing more flexibility for businesses, and joining the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean convention to streamline goods trade. Haviland stressed that businesses need a smart, flexible approach to trade negotiations to boost exports and foster economic recovery.