Since the implication of the new Brexit protocols, the manner in which the United Kingdom imports and exports goods through the EU will change. When the UK was still deciding whether to remain or leave in the EU, many argued that these changes to the normal protocol and routine of trade and exchange in and out of the UK could have a negative impact on the UK economy. However many decided the risk was worth taking, but are we now going to start seeing the consequences of our actions…

The new Brexit protocol states that at the beginning of 2022 checks will be implemented at UK borders on goods exported from the European Union. Despite the backlash by the many opposing the movement of the referendum, economists and the UK government said that the new trade deals and protocols that were coming into place would have a positive economic effect. However as time is passing these protocols have started affecting the large Welsh automotive industry which makes up 3% of all industry in Wales.

Unfortunately, amidst the pandemic, with the demand for cars falling, the uncertainties of the Brexit referendum and the negative effects of the Covid — 19 pandemic, the sector has taken a hit. This is putting up to 16000 jobs at risk within the Welsh automotive industry. As a result of the new Brexit protocols in place — many transport and export businesses have complained against the constant delay due to the paperwork and newly-found registration protocol and checks which take place at borders. This is having an adverse effect on consumers and businesses which import gods from other countries in the European Union. Businesses nationwide argue that they could run out of stock if the situation continues like this. This will have a significant negative impact on the consumer satisfaction and therefore negatively effect the consumer demand, potentially reducing the money brought in by businesses and therefore effecting the amount of money added the the UK economy.

Due to the negative effects that have been noticed so far the UK government has decided to delay these until January 2022, due to business concerns. Personally I believe that the UK government should help support local businesses and manufacturers located in the UK and help develop a faster method of importing and exporting products quickly. Due to the heavy waiting times we are already seeing some automotive companies based in the UK moving production lines to the EU instead of continuing production in the UK to dodge the waiting times. This can lead to a loss of jobs, negatively effecting the UK economy.