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 .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 come 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.
Bitesize videos to help businesses with UK transition
Rochford District Council commissioned Essex Chambers of Commerce to produce a series of ‘bitesize’ videos to help the business community be prepared. Now that the UK has left the EU, the information remains relevant, so please watch to make sure your business is able to continue trading with the EU without disruption!
The videos, which can be found on the Rochford District Council YouTube channel focus on four key themes:
- Do you buy goods from or sell goods to the EU?
- What are the key dates and stages I should know about?
- What can I do now to be prepared to continue trading with the EU?
- What resources and support are out there to help you “Get Ready?”
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.