BIFA agrees with Confederation of British Industry’s Brexit warning

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has agreed with a caution issued by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), which suggests that neither the UK nor the EU is ready for a no-deal Brexit on October 31st.

Robert Keen, director general of BIFA, said: “As the trade body that speaks for the sector of the economy that is responsible for managing the supply chains that underpin the UK’s visible international trade, we’ve been vocal in our concerns that our members cannot prepare for a no-deal Brexit, given the ongoing uncertainty over many issues that affect how they conduct that trade.”

Very few companies have registered for a new government online system designed to protect value added tax revenues on foreign parcels in the event of a no-deal Brexit. This has led BIFA to question if the government is listening to advice from industry experts.

Keen added: “In the last few days, we have a seen a completely new government installed, which is intent on the UK leaving the EU with, or without a deal. With less than 100 days to the Brexit deadline, departments in that new government must urgently step up their preparations, engage with and listen to trade associations such as BIFA, immediately step up their preparations and deliver clear advice on how trade will be conducted after October 31, deal or no deal. Talk is all well and good, but what we now need is clear information and instructions.”