UK/EU ‘reset’ will help clear bottleneck at border, say small firms

Responding to the UK and EU’s summit conclusions, Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, said:

“This agreement marks genuine progress by untangling the rules for small exporters of plant and animal products. If British goods can reach European markets with fewer setbacks, that marks real progress.

“For too long, small businesses have shouldered the burden of unpredictable custom rules and red tape that sap confidence and ambition.

“Today’s agreement brings us a step closer to reducing the burdens for SMEs by clearing the bottleneck at the border, trading fresh produce and more efficient supply chains.

“We also welcome conversations on business mobility and the mutual recognition of qualifications across borders, and hope that small firms are given a seat at the table as plans take shape.

“Of course, this deal does not solve every challenge overnight, but it sets a very welcome new tone.

“International trade is so valuable – firms selling to overseas markets grow faster and are more likely to weather tough times.

“It is therefore vital that the spirit of this progress is not allowed to unravel.

“The task is to make sure the details work for small firms on the ground, from a bakery in Belfast to a cheese maker in Cheddleton. With ambition and common sense, we can move from stalemate to success.”