Question to the Department for International Trade:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the absence of rules of origin in free trade agreements on the ability of SMEs to price goods accurately.
Rules of Origin are an important aspect of the United Kingdom’s free trade agreements, as they ensure that only the parties to a free trade agreement can utilise the preferential tariff rates offered and protect against circumvention. However, HM Government recognises that Rules of Origin create costs for traders (and therefore consumers).
This is why HM Government is seeking Rules of Origin that reflect the requirements of British industry, supported by predictable and low-cost administrative arrangements, which are inclusive and accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). HM Government is committed to providing support and guidance to SMEs so that they can comply with Rules of Origin and understand the costs of compliance.