News story

HMRC hosts event for businesses who export and import with the EU

Mel Stride MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, opened a conference today (29 January 2019) for business representatives on what they need to do to help businesses to prepare for EU exit.

The event outlined the changes businesses will need to respond to, as they import and export with EU companies, under a range of scenarios.

Mel Stride said:

This is part of the vital preparation to ensure that businesses are ready for leaving the EU.

Opportunities abound for a global Britain to strike out for rich new fields of trade and investment - however, preparations are needed to be able to capitalise on them.

HMRC is doing everything it can to make clear to businesses what is required of them ahead of when we leave.

In recent months, HMRC has published technical notices, partner packs, letters and guidance setting out the implications for a no deal scenario.

There is a real need for businesses trading to be ready and able to comply with any new rules and be emboldened to continue trading confidently.

The event, held at the QEII Centre in central London, heard from speakers who updated businesses with the latest information and actions to take around customs, VAT and excise, specifically including:

  • customs processes
  • roll-on roll-off port locations and changes
  • VAT processes

The event also hosted information stalls for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Border Delivery Group, Department for Transport, Government Digital Service and the Home Office.

Further information

Businesses will also receive a letter in early February with further details and information with guidance published on GOV.UK.

Published 29 January 2019