DOING BUSINESS WITH THE EU
The transition period has now ended and the UK has left the EU. New rules apply to how we do business with Europe.
A Trade and Cooperation Agreement has been agreed, governing future trade relations between the UK and the EU from 1 January 2021, which will see no tariffs or quotas on the movement of goods produced between the UK and the EU. Further information is available here
There is a useful Business Checker on things like travel and doing business with Europe. You can use this checker to get a personalised list of actions for you, your business and your family.
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Business Support Helpline
There are new rules for businesses doing business with the EU from 1 January, and you need to take action now. To help you, a helpline has been set up. For English businesses, the Business Support Helpline can help you identify the actions you need to take.
Businesses in England, call 0800 998 1098
For more information, including opening hours, click here
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
The Growth Hub has access to a range of resources provided by Government and partners which aim to help businesses by sharing information and guidance on how to do business with the EU from 1 January 2021.
HMRC Tariff Tool
Here you will find information and a step by step guide to check commodity codes, duty and VAT rates.
HM Government Business Checker Tool
New rules now apply to your business when trading with the EU; the above Business Checker Tool will offer your business guidance on the key areas of change.
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Click the link and simply choose from one of the nine key areas you are most interested in.
Sign up to email alerts about EU exit on GOV.UK
The Department for International Trade has released further information for UK businesses about overseas government procurement opportunities. For more information click here.
EORI Number
You will need an EORI number to move goods between Great Britain and other countries, and you may also need a separate EORI number if you move goods to or from Northern Ireland. If you do not have an EORI number you may incur increased costs and/or delays.
If you already have an EORI number that does not start with GB you will need to apply for a new one.
HMRC Customs Grant Schemes
There are three different types of grant available through the Customs Grant Scheme. Please visit grants available to find out more about each grant, or use the grant checker to find out which grants you can apply for.
Grants will be issued on a first come, first served basis and applications will close on 30 June 2021, or earlier if all funding is allocated. Applications for the co-funded training project, trader training and for AEO businesses opened on 16 November 2020.
For more information on the scheme and how to apply, please read the guidance on GOV.UK
FURTHER GUIDANCE
#DIT has also published guidance from French customs authorities for UK businesses.
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#The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has published guidance for businesses.
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#Business West offers access to information to help businesses most impacted by the transition.
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#Federation of Small Businesses offer support in their Transition Hub which supports small businesses and self-employed people to undertand and prepare for changes.
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#Devon and Plymouth Chamber of Commerce have created a booklet on how the transition will affect your business.