Independent report

Analysis of non-tariff measures in the UK internal market

Research report and accompanying regulatory database identifying and analysing existing non-tariff measures (NTMs) in the UK internal market.

Documents

Non-tariff measures and the UK internal market - research report

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Non-tariff measures and the UK internal market - regulatory database

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Details

The research identifies and analyses existing intra-UK non-tariff measures (NTMs) as a key factor influencing the degree of integration of the UK internal market.

The report collects data on regulatory measures affecting trade in services using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) Services Trade Restrictiveness Index (STRI) methodology.

The research covers 13 STRI sectors and 1 cross-cutting area:

  • accounting services
  • air transport
  • architecture services
  • computer services
  • construction
  • courier services
  • distribution
  • engineering services
  • legal services
  • logistics (cargo storage and warehousing)
  • logistics (customs brokerage)
  • maritime transport
  • road freight transport
  • digital services (cross-cutting)

The accompanying database contains regulatory measures covering each of these sectors.

The research distinguishes between policies that:

  • affect non-preferential trading partners, i.e. those trading under most-favoured-nation (MFN) terms under World Trade Organisation rules
  • apply to exporters from the European Economic Area (EEA)
  • apply to firms within the regulating jurisdiction
  • apply to firms from the rest of the UK

The report also analyses NTMs in key sectors in the 4 UK constituent parts and compares them with international benchmarks, in particular EU member states with comparable legislative decentralisation.

Published 16 July 2020