As the possibility of a no-deal exit from the European Union draws closer we, as part of the accredited Chambers network have been working with the British Chambers of Commerce to try to make the process as smooth as possible for exporters.
Commenting on the Parliamentary vote on the motion to rule out leaving the EU without a withdrawal agreement, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“It’s all well and good that Parliament has said it doesn’t want a no-deal exit, but without concrete action, its gestures are meaningless for business. A messy and disorderly exit on March 29th is still a clear and present danger.”
We understand that businesses need answers they can base decisions on, no matter the outcome. This includes the trade documentation for use by exporters to prove origin, things cannot just stop because decisions haven’t been made.
The British Chambers of Commerce have advised us that should the United Kingdom reach a Withdrawal Agreement with the EU, then the existing documents that we currently issue will continue to be used throughout any period of transition and no changes will need to be made.
As part of the network’s contingency planning for a no-deal Brexit, our colleagues at the British Chambers of Commerce have worked closely with HMRC and the DIT on the revised format of preference and non-preference certificates of origin. This is to ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible for exporters in all scenarios.
In the event of a no-deal Brexit we have made preparations to enable us to provide exporters with continuity of service through the issuance of revised ‘United Kingdom’ documentation. This will be ready and available in time for March 29th.
Julie Austin, International Trade Manager for Norfolk Chambers of Commerce said:
“If you use blank certificates for printing at your business premises, then we will be contacting you, as much in advance as possible, to arrange to supply replacement certificates. These should only be used in the event that the United Kingdom leaves the European Union in a no-deal scenario. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this with myself or any of the team please give me a call on 01603 729706.”
