Five years after Brexit, the red tape is worse than ever. One in six SME exporters has completely stopped selling to Europe because the customs burden is simply too high. The Office for National Statistics confirms that 16.7 % of previous EU traders have given up.
For those still trying, the cost is brutal. HMRC data shows the average SME exporter now spends around £15,000 a year on customs declarations, admin, and delays. That’s money that could have paid wages, upgraded equipment, or funded marketing – instead it vanishes into bureaucracy.
We were promised “frictionless trade” and the “exact same benefits.” Instead, many members have walked away from the continent entirely. Others are losing margins they can’t afford to lose. The fix is straightforward: a fully digital single-window system by 2026. One login, pre-filled data, and SME exemptions for shipments under £50,000. The British Chambers of Commerce estimates this would cut admin time by half and put £4 billion back into British businesses every year. Other countries already have it. Britain is falling behind.
The 1832 Club is fighting for these changes. The more members we have, the louder our voice in Westminster.
Join today from just £5/month or £40/year and help to support pro-SME candidates.
Together we can make a difference.