Brexit burden must be cut, says BCC

24 Jun 2026

The UK government must set out a clear plan to ease the burdens that Brexit has placed on business, says the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Over half of UK exporters think the current trade deal with the EU is making it harder to export and the need for change is urgent, according to BCC research.

There is also increasing concern among UK firms involved in European supply chains about the EU's Made in Europe agenda.

Other key issues for business that still need to be addressed include customs red tape, VAT complexity, business mobility, mutual recognition of professional qualifications, and increased cooperation on defence. 

William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: 'Businesses have been put through the wringer since Brexit, as the costs and complexity of trading with the EU have soared.

'There is insufficient recognition and debate over the damaging effect on trade and growth this has caused. The Office for Budget Responsibility puts the long term hit to the UK's economic growth at 4%.

'Businesses have become increasingly frustrated because UK-EU relations don't have to be this way. There are many steps that can be taken to simplify trade and benefit both our economies.'