Dorset’s voice of business has warned that there are still many unanswered questions about the end of the EU transition period.
The Dorset Chamber says that latest research has shown that businesses still have insufficient information available in many areas – undermining their ability for change on January 1.
It has joined forces with other chambers nationwide accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) to call for more clarity as matter of urgency.
Issues cover such areas as UK/EU customs checks, rules of origin, movement of goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland and publication of tariff codes.
The Dorset Chamber, the county’s leading business support organisation, has issued the plea as talks about a trade deal between the UK and EU go down to the wire – and with 24 days to go to transition.
Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said: “The lack of information presents significant challenges for businesses in Dorset trying to prepare for the EU transition.
“None of the issues businesses are grappling with are new. They have all been raised repeatedly over the past four years, from tariff codes and rules of origin through to the movement of goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.
“The BCC, supported by the Dorset Chamber and business communities nationwide, has long campaigned for greater clarity and it is incredibly frustrating that we have reached this point.
“Irrespective of whether a trade deal is reached or not, businesses require clear, detailed and actionable information to prepare for the end of the transition period.
“With the clock ticking down, the government must do everything in its power to provide businesses with answers as they prepare to navigate a New Year like no other.”
Ian added: “Dorset businesses have shown great patience but are understandably concerned about the EU transition.
“Support remains available free of charge to all businesses through the Dorset Gateway and the Chamber’s vastly experienced International Trade team is on hand to provide advice and guidance.”
The British Chambers of Commerce says there is still insufficient information available in 24 critical areas on its ‘Brexit Guidance Dashboard’ of key details needed by business. It has issued its call for action with 24 days to go to the end of the transition period.
Visit www.dorsetchamber.co.uk Brexit Support for more details.