A new poll has found that UK firms are starting to get to grips with new rules since Brexit, but are wary of potential additional changes to come. 

Conducted by the Institute of Export & International Trade, the poll found that 70% of respondents are confident trading with the EU, albeit only 10% said they were ‘very confident’. 

The proactivity of local firms has also been shown with almost two-thirds of businesses saying they’ve arranged additional training to adjust to the new post-Brexit rules and processes, with half of that support being from outside specialists such as a customs consultant, whilst two in 10 firms have also hired additional staff. 

Whilst a brighter business outlook than some may have thought, there is nervousness about what trading with the EU will look like when new import measures come into effect starting on 1st January next year. 

Half of those quizzed said they are not confident that trade between the EU and UK will be trouble-free when customs declaration rules change, with just 5% saying they are highly confident that there won’t be any disruption. 

Director general of the IOR&IT, Marco Forgione, commented on the poll findings that: “The past year has been a period of adaptation for UK businesses engaging in trade with the EU. Confidence in exporting to the EU has grown over the past 12 months, as companies have undertaken more training and education.”

Read more: UK becomes smaller international trader since Brexit

He continued: “The IOE&IT has been supporting businesses through this year, delivering technical support, guidance and most importantly training, to ensure British exporters can trade both confidently and compliantly.

“As the Brexit timeline moves on, the next crucial date is 1 January 2022. The Institute stands ready to support importers implement these new changes and help them navigate them effectively.”