A survey from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and DHL Express has highlighted that while barriers to trade affect most firms, overcoming recent EU challenges has led some to expand into new markets.

The survey of almost 1,000 UK businesses – 92% SMEs – shows almost half (48%) said the top barriers to exporting were costs and disruption, alongside tariffs (48%), and customs procedures (47%). A further 41% of businesses said regulatory issues such as product certification were a hindrance to trade, and 37% cited political, social, economic or environmental uncertainty.  

Only 9% of firms surveyed said their business does not face any barriers to exporting.   

The lack of engagement amongst businesses with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is another stumbling block preventing more international sales. Four out of five firms (79%) had not carried out any assessment into what they may need from a trade deal with major international markets. This falls slightly to 69% for UK exporters. 

William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, BCC, said:  

“Our findings highlight the real priorities traders have for UK trade negotiations with partners across the world, and other trade policy developments. Faster customs processes, tariff reductions, removing technical barriers to trade, focused support for SMEs’ easier labour mobility, and mutual recognition of professional qualifications are the top six issues for the UK’s SME exporters.  

Ian Wilson, CEO, DHL Express UK, said:  

“Businesses have been through enormous challenges over the last two years, but they have shown incredible resilience. During times of economic uncertainty, having a presence in a number of markets is an effective way to minimise risk, so we need to ensure that UK businesses are encouraged to keep looking for international trade opportunities.