Thread by @AnnaJerzewska

Missed it last week.

More evidence of the consequences of introducing new friction - completely foreseeable and understandable.

/1

Trade between the UK and the EU is of course still very much possible and if you meet origin requirements also tariff-free.

But the change simply makes it more difficult, more expensive and less competitive.

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So if you have a choice... you're likely to look elsewhere.

One point to mention, there is no "re-opening of the talks". That's not how trade deals work.

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bbc.com/news/uk-scotla…

And def not because of consequences that were obvious.

Even if many companies are only now discovering what it means to be a third country.

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But that's an important lesson for the future - you don't sign a trade deal and change it a few months later when you decide you don't like it.

For these companies and organisations, the focus now should be on prospective deals.

/5

Engage early to ensure the deals with Australia, NZ etc contain provisions that protect your interests.

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While I often talk about the need for Gov to engage with private sector stakeholders, this works both ways - if you want to provide input, do it before the deal is signed.

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You'd be surprised how difficult it is to get businesses to show any interest in trade negotiations before it's too late.

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(h/t @snb19692 and @acgrayling for posting the article).

Interesting points about food standards in there too.

9/9