New DIT support service for UK Exporters to Europe

26 Oct 2021

The Department for International Trade has stepped up its support on European export issues, with the launch of its Export Support Service, as announced on 1 October 2021.

There are two levels.  A basic service is aimed at pointing towards information and guidance on gov.uk and can be accessed online and by telephone.  The service level for response is set for service is three days.  DIT stresses it does not offer commercial advice or seek to compete with existing commercial or other links, such as with HMRC.

British businesses exporting to Europe will now be able to access one-to-one advice via a new phone and online service launched on 1 October. CLICK HERE for contact details. From queries around rules of origin, to guidance on recognising professional qualifications and entering new markets, the Export Support Service will provide a single point of contact. It will help exporters navigate a range of complex information simply and quickly.

The second level is for more complex problems and is dealt with by the policy team.  It aims to take specific problems – for example it has dealt with an issue about cosmetic labelling in Spain.  Information on gov.uk regarding selling second hand goods in Europe was considered to be unclear and has been updated.

DIT welcomes information regarding other issues dealing with Europe.  It already receives information from trade associations and through its network of international trade advisors.

DIT has largely focused on trade with areas other than Europe, until recently.   The new service was “launched fairly quietly in a targeted way” on October 1.  It may in due course be expanded to cover the rest of the world.

Information link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/dedicated-hotline-and-online-service-launched-for-uk-exporters

If anyone has comments on this new service please email sarah@bfpa.co.uk at the BFPA