Retail association welcomes Chancellor's action on unfair trade practices

A leading trade association has strongly welcomed the Chancellor's announcement of plans to create a level playing field for British businesses against unfair international trade practices.

This announcement, made by Chancellor Rachel Reeves last week, represents a significant step forward in addressing concerns that the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has consistently raised on behalf of its members.

Bira has been campaigning for independent retailers over concerns about the damaging impact of cheap imports entering the UK duty-free and often avoiding VAT, creating unfair competition with responsible UK-based retailers.

The Chancellor's decision to review the customs treatment of Low Value Imports – which currently allows goods valued at £135 or less to be imported without paying customs duty – directly addresses one of our key concerns.

This system has disadvantaged British retailers by allowing international companies to undercut them, affecting high streets across the nation.

Andrew Goodacre (pictured), CEO of Bira, said: "This announcement validates what Bira has been pushing for on behalf of its members.

“Since our October conference, the association has been working closely with BHETA and RAVAS – organisations aligned with Bira's thinking – to bring these issues to the government's attention.

“It is pleasing that the government has been listening and is now taking action."

The government's package of support includes increased assistance for businesses to report unfair practices, improved monitoring of trade data, and an acceleration of measures to deter import surges.

These steps will help protect independent retailers who form the backbone of our high streets.

Beyond the issue of duty-free imports, Bira continues to advocate for action on VAT avoidance. Online marketplaces must be held accountable for collecting VAT from sellers, as they are legally responsible for doing so.

The safety concerns associated with many imported products also remain a significant issue that requires addressing.

Mr Goodacre added: "While this announcement is welcome, Bira urges the government to act quickly and decisively. The association will continue to push on these issues as it looks to protect the interests of hard-working independent retailers across the UK.”