Commenting on the EU’s new General Product Safety Regulation, which will come into effect from 13 December, Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair at the Federation of Small Businesses, said:
“The EU’s upcoming General Product Safety Regulation will be a real barrier to international trade for some of our small firms looking to export to EU member states, but also move goods to Northern Ireland.
“Our latest research shows 37% of current exporters rank information on specific issues, including product safety rules, customs etc as one of the most beneficial sources when entering or exploring entry to a new market. Some 49% of current and would-be exporters see local regulations as key to increase their competitiveness on market entry.
“While the UK Government’s newly published guidance on the new EU rule is helpful, small firms are still faced with the complexity and associated costs around it. Governments from both sides should look at removing unnecessary trade barriers, not least those arising from the product safety rules, for small businesses in the UK-EU Trade and Cooperative Agreement review in 2026.
“In the meantime, there is a need to strengthen the UK Government export support. Reducing the turnover threshold for one-to-one bespoke support to £400,000 would empower more small firms and start-ups to consider international trade from day one.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
- The survey was conducted by the research agency Verve between 15 November and 11 December 2023. A total of 715 small businesses was polled.
- Case studies are available on request.
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As the UK’s largest business support group, FSB is the voice of the UK’s small businesses and the self-employed. Established over 40 years ago to help its members succeed in business, FSB is a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by its members, for its members. As the UK’s leading business campaigner, FSB is focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed.
FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including access to finance, business banking, legal advice and support along with a powerful voice in Government. Each year FSB also runs the UK’s Celebrating Small Business Awards. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk. You can follow us on twitter @fsb_policy and on Instagram @fsb_uk.