Brexit trade deal

The deal is a 2,000 page document, and the devil will be very much in the detail. Businesses will be seeking clarification and reassurance on a whole raft of issues, from rules of origin to data regulations.

It’s important to point out that the deal allows for tariff and quota free trade in goods, which has been a significant concern for local exporters, but not in services, a sector which is very important for the UK economy.

Even with this deal, there are going to be many changes for businesses which trade with the EU.  As the details of the deal are digested in the coming days, there is now at least some clarity on many issues which is very welcome, even at this late stage.

The overwhelming emotion in the business community will be one of relief that a no-deal outcome has been avoided and our local businesses can continue to trade competitively with the European Union.