Free Brexit advice for Kent s importers and exporters
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Updated: 10:24, 05 March 2021
Firms in the county can now access free specialist advice on how to do business with the EU following Brexit.
Kent County Councilâs Trading Standards officers will provide no-cost regulatory guidance to businesses via a dedicated advice line.
File photo dated 28/01/19 of Union and European Union flags outside the Houses of Parliament, London. Theresa May has warned MPs that if they fail to back her Brexit deal at the third time of asking then Brussels might insist on a lengthy delay, potentially scuppering chances of leaving the European Union altogether.. (44878405)
Thames Freeport plan for 25,000 new jobs applauded by SELEP
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Updated: 10:20, 04 March 2021
Rishi Sunak s announcement of a freeport serving the Thames Estuary has been warmly welcomed by the body promoting growth and jobs in the region.
The South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) described the Chancellor s announcement during the Budget on Wednesday as fantastic news which would bring much-welcomed jobs .
The Thames Freeport was one of eight announced by the Chancellor
One of eight to be green-lit, the port will be spearheaded by DP World and Forth Ports and built to incorporate Tilbury Docks, near the Dartford Crossing, as well as London Gateway.
VAT changes after Brexit prompt firms to stop exports
Published: 06:30, 03 March 2021
Businesses in the county are being forced to scrap exports to the EU due to a shift in VAT regulations following Brexit.
Despite warnings to prepare ahead of the end of the transition period, many found themselves distracted by the challenges posed by the pandemic, and only now are finding themselves facing hefty bills and stubborn buyers on the continent.
Exporting goods now comes at an extra cost for many Kent firms
A key stumbling block is a change in the way VAT is paid on exported products - and for many, the additional costs incurred are forcing them to rein in their international ambitions - and that represents a blow to the growth of many ambitious Kent firms.
Budget 2021: Kent business experts react
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Rishi Sunak has unveiled his 2021 Budget
The Chancellor s Budget has given businesses vital breathing space according to a leading business figure in the county.
Rishi Sunak unveiled his heavily leaked Budget in the Commons this afternoon with most businesses taking comfort from a range of measures designed to allow them to survive the lockdowns which have proven so financially devastating over the last 12 months.
Key announcements were the extension of the furlough scheme until December, an extension to the business rates holiday, and further grants for hospitality and non-essential stores forced to close.
Jo James, chief executive of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce said: Without having a chance to see the detail in the red book, on the face of it the Budget appears to be generous in some areas and fair in others.