Reports that single trade window has been “shelved” are deeply concerning, says Logistics UK

“These reports are deeply concerning. If true, they will be a blow for our members and there must be a credible alternative.

“Growing uncertainty makes it harder for businesses to plan and invest. The UK has fallen from fourth to nineteenth in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index, and exporters continue to face unnecessary duplication and cost at the border.

“The Single Trade Window is not just about cutting red tape, it is also about growth and living standards. Previous government modelling suggested that a new post-Brexit border system, including efficiencies linked to a Single Trade Window, was expected to reduce costs for traders by around half a billion pounds a year.

“If the government wants to boost employment and raise living standards, cutting border friction must be at the heart of a trade-led growth strategy and is one of the quickest wins available.”