Businesses urged to prepare for the end of the transition period

In his letter, the Business Secretary will call on businesses to familiarise themselves with the actions they will need to take, by visiting gov.uk/transition and using the checker tool.

The government has warned that when the transition period ends on 31 December 2020, there will be a guaranteed set of changes and opportunities for which businesses need to prepare as the UK leaves the customs union and single market, including changes to the way businesses import and export goods, the process for hiring people from the EU, and the way businesses provide services in EU markets.

"With just 81 days until the end of the transition period, businesses must act now to ensure they are ready for the UK’s new start come January. There will be no extension to the transition period, so there is no time to waste," said Mr Sharma. 

"I urge all businesses across the country to check gov.uk to see what action they need to take, sign up for updates, or attend one of our sector-specific webinars."

The government will inform businesses that a vast majority of actions will need to be completed regardless of the outcome of the UK's negotiations with the EU. These include ensuring staff register for residency rights and preparing for customs procedures when trading with the EU.

"Businesses have a crucial role to play in ensuring a smooth transition, and we will be there to support them through this change every step of the way," Mr Sharma added. 

The UK government is hosting webinars to help businesses make the transition. More information can be accessed here.