None of the UK businesses responding to research by the British Chambers of Commerce said they believe they have “comprehensive support” from the government to manage trade policy changes.
The report surveyed 939 firms, 40% of which were exporters. Only 13% felt they get sufficient support for international trade, while 32% and 31% thought they either have not much support or no support at all.
When asked about government support, 41% of the exporters said they don’t have much support and 32% no support at all. Only 17% said they are getting sufficient help and, again, none believed they get comprehensive support.
The report said improvements to digital trade processes would make international trade quicker, simpler and cheaper for SMEs. It said a joint plan should be launched between the government and businesses to manage digital trade.
Recommendations include the UK showing leadership in building global adoption of electronic trade documentation, establishing effective digital trade corridors following the UK’s soon to be launched pilot schemes with France and Germany, and creating new pathways for export support and market expansion through private sector led trade accelerators.
William Bain, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Our research is clear, UK exporters are navigating trade policy changes largely alone.
“At a time when the global trade landscape is changing constantly, firms tell us comprehensive support from government is lacking. Many businesses feel they are getting little or no advice.
“To help grow the economy and keep the UK competitive, we need a joint plan between government and business to drive forward digital trade. Standing still isn’t an option.
“The UK has real strengths in digital trade documentation and world class private sector capability. Those strengths need to be urgently harnessed alongside comprehensive support to exporters across the UK.”
Iain Walker, industry engagement director at global standards organisation GS1 UK, a partner for the report, said the private sector has the capability to support digital trade but there needs to be “a genuine partnership with government to put the right frameworks in place” because “without it, the UK risks falling behind”.