Brexit 10: Businesses Call for Action to Cut Trade Barriers

As the UK marks 10 years since the Brexit referendum, the British Chambers of Commerce is urging government to take practical steps to reduce the burden Brexit continues to place on UK businesses and improve trading conditions with the European Union. According to recent BCC research, more than half of UK exporters (54%) believe the current UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement has made exporting more difficult, while only 16% say it is helping their business grow. 

While Brexit is now firmly embedded in the trading landscape, significant opportunities remain to simplify processes, reduce costs and strengthen market access.

Key Issues Affecting Exporters

The BCC highlights several areas that continue to create friction for businesses trading with the EU:

·        Customs administration and border procedures

·        VAT complexity across European markets

·        Restrictions on business mobility

·        Lack of mutual recognition of professional qualifications

·        Supply chain challenges resulting from evolving EU industrial policies

·        Regulatory divergence between the UK and EU

There is also growing concern around the EU’s developing ‘Made in Europe’ agenda. Businesses involved in European supply chains should closely monitor developments, as stricter sourcing requirements could make it more difficult for UK firms to participate in some EU supply chains in the future.

Regulatory Alignment: What Businesses Are Saying

One notable finding from the BCC's latest research is that 55% of UK exporters believe closer alignment with EU product regulations would help their business, while only 18% think it would hinder growth. This suggests many exporters are prioritising ease of trade and market access over regulatory divergence.

Looking Ahead

The BCC is calling for greater urgency in UK-EU discussions and for both sides to focus on practical solutions that support economic growth. Areas identified for improvement include customs simplification, enhanced supply chain cooperation, defence collaboration and reducing administrative barriers to trade.

Importantly, the BCC emphasises that businesses are focused on improving existing arrangements rather than reopening debates around rejoining the EU or entering a customs union. Businesses continue to seek opportunities not only in Europe but also across key growth markets such as North America, Asia and the Middle East.

What This Means for Suffolk Businesses

International trade remains a powerful driver of growth, and businesses should continue to:

·        Review supply chains for potential regulatory and sourcing changes within the EU.

·        Stay informed of evolving customs and compliance requirements.

·        Explore opportunities in both established and emerging international markets.

·        Seek expert support when navigating complex trade regulations and market access requirements.

At Suffolk Chamber, our International Trade team continues to support businesses through export documentation, international market guidance, and specialist consultancy services including CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) support, helping Suffolk firms trade with confidence in an increasingly complex global environment.

Read the full BCC press release:

BCC Brexit Burden Must Be Cut