Brexit

The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020. If your business is involved in the flow of people, data, goods or services between the UK and the EU, you need to act now and make the necessary changes. Most of these changes will be required regardless of the agreement we reach with the EU on our future relationship, because the UK has left the single market and customs union. The Supplier Development Programme will update these resources for Scottish SMEs and supported businesses in relation to the UK's exit from the European Union as they become available.

How to operate after Brexit

Businesses should go to the Operating after Brexit via the Find Business Support website for the latest guidance, support and advice. Here you will be able to:

  • Access the Brexit Helpline, for queries from import and export documentation, tariffs, VAT to logistics. Email: Brexit Enquiry Form Telephone: 0300 303 0661
  • Find frequently asked question by searching by topic to find solutions to common issues faced by Scottish businesses
  • Understand the new rules surrounding VAT, how the new rule will affect your business, with country-specific information and situational examples.
  • Find out how the Rules of Origin impact your business and follow a five-step process to make sure you're following the new regulations
  • Access Transport and logistics to ensure your goods get to market and you get the imports your business needs to operate after Brexit.

Information on virtual event and webinars to help your business operate after Brexit can be accessed via the Find Business Support website.

Import easements are ending from 1 January 2022

From 1 January 2021, Great Britain ceased to be part of the EU Single Market and Customs Union. More information on Trade with the EU, including rules for GB importers and exporters 1 January 2022 is available on the Scottish Enterprise website.

Historical information

The information below is historical and available for reference.

How can I prepare my business for Brexit with regard to procurement?

Download this resource:

  • Brexit: Are you ready? This resource from Brodies contains a checklist for businesses to assess how ready they are for the end of the Brexit transition period, and raises awareness about the possibilities around "no deal" tariffs.

Scottish Government Procurement also publishes up-to-date advice. Visit:

How can I prepare my business for Brexit more generally?

The UK Government has published additional resources, including a simple tool on gov.uk/transition now to understand the comprehensive changes for your business, and for a personalised summary of the actions you need to take. You can sign up for sector-specific webinars and watch videos on topics including importing, exporting and the customs clearance process online.

If you move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Trader Support Service will guide you through any changes due to the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

You may not be able to sell your goods in the UK and the EU if you do not comply with the relevant goods regulations and standards from 1 January 2021. To identify changes affecting manufactured goods, such as new marking requirements or approvals needed, you must ensure your business is ready to sell them in the UK and EU.

Additional resources are available on getting ready to make customs declarations, checking if a visa or work permit is required to travel to the EU for work purposes, and if you are planning to recruit from overseas from 1 January 2021, registering as a licensed visa sponsor through Business Gateway website.

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