Exporters are getting real fed up with all the border checks happening these days. Apparently, Britain’s post-Brexit customs arrangements are causing a lot of stress, extra costs, and uncertainty among traders. HMRC, the taxman, is even sending out £600 fines to UK households and not bothering to explain why. Like, rude much?
According to traders who were interviewed by researchers hired by HM Revenue & Customs, the customs guidance from the taxman is kind of confusing. One big business owner even said that their staff member doesn’t want to deal with it anymore because it’s just too stressful. Another trader mentioned how if there are any issues, you end up with a hefty financial penalty. And if things aren’t sorted out quickly, you could lose all your profit just like that. Ouch.
The struggles don’t stop there. Small agents are complaining that they can’t get any information when problems arise. It’s like pulling teeth trying to figure out what’s going on because HMRC won’t talk to them directly. You have to send an email, which is already a hassle to find the right address for, and then it doesn’t even go to the right department. Talk about a runaround. But on the bright side, some traders are saying that things have been a bit smoother lately. Maybe Brexit chaos is finally settling down? Who knows. Not me.
In the midst of all this chaos, some traders are calling for UK-EU leaders to come to an agreement on a solid agri-food deal. They want safety and security declarations to be put to an end in both directions to simplify border processes for businesses on both sides. HMRC, on the other hand, insists that moving goods across the border is generally a smooth process. They claim to be using feedback to make things easier, improve guidance, and support the flow of legitimate goods. Let’s hope they actually follow through on that promise. Fingers crossed.
