A Brexit deal – but action still required
The UK may have secured a free trade agreement with the EU at the 11th hour, but there are actions farmers still need to take to ensure business isn’t disrupted in 2021.
Despite zero tariffs which will see trade continue between the UK and Europe, it won’t be frictionless.
There are new rules to be followed for farming businesses, particularly those which are also exporting. And with new rules, comes paperwork and red tape.
We have already seen some initial problems at the border, particularly with perishable products, because customs and export documents have not been in order.
Rural businesses, particularly those in arable farming, are also employers of significant numbers of workers from the EU and new rules have also been introduced around this aspect of post-transition business.
We’re working with a number of farming businesses to update what may now be out-of-date employment contracts and policies as well as examining whether any changes need to be made to contracts with suppliers and customers both in the UK and overseas.
What we are finding is that many farmers and landowners are using the opportunity to examine other aspects of their business, including planning for the future. It is certainly worth reviewing where you stand with agricultural property relief, diversification and succession planning.
Expert agricultural lawyer Tom Devey is Partner at FBC Manby Bowdler
