Brexit Headache For UK Horse Businesses But Hope For Better

Equestrian firms are facing extra issues but it is hoped the situation will improve soon

- Lucy Elder

Red tape is causing a headache for British equestrian businesses and customers negotiating the post-Brexit landscape, while hopes abound the situation will improve before long.

Traders have told H&H that on the whole business has been strong in the equestrian sector despite the challenges Covid and Brexit have posed, but new paperwork, taxes and confusion surrounding Britain’s trade deal with the EU are causing trouble.

“The problem is, people tried to get prepared, but they didn’t know what they were preparing for and that has made this so much more challenging,” British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) executive director Claire Williams told H&H, adding that this is also all new to customs agents and couriers.

“It is causing quite a few hiccups, but I’m hoping it is just going to be a temporary blip.”

GETTING AHEAD

MS WILLIAMS said some businesses tried to get ahead with shipments before the end of the transition period, but French border issues in December as a result of Covid caused problems.