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Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for UK businesses

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Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for UK businesses

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Guidance for UK businesses trading internationally

This guidance is for UK businesses that export or deliver goods and services abroad and have been impacted by the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

1. DIT support for UK businesses trading internationally

DIT can advise on:

  • smooth clearance of products with customs authorities
  • intellectual property ( IP) and other issues with business continuity
  • export plans and exploring market opportunities
  • finding new routes to markets
  • dealing with agents and distributors
  • selling online and updating your digital (online) presence

1.1Supply chains affected by coronavirus (COVID-19)

DITcan help you to find alternative suppliers. We have relationships with a global network of businesses across the world and may be able to advise you on the options available.

You can get support through (one of the following):

  • directly contacting your trade adviser where you have an existing relationship
  • your local trade office in the UKif your supply chain has been affected by coronavirus (COVID-19)

2.UK Export Finance ( UKEF) support for UK exporters

UKEFcan help businesses facing disruption due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

Read more aboutUKEF’s finance and insurance support for exporters.

3.Accessing DITsupport

Our network of UK and international trade offices are working closely with businesses that have seen their trade impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

You can access DITsupport by:

  • contacting your international trade adviser directly where you have an existing relationship
  • finding your nearest local trade office in the UK to discuss specific trade issues

For UK businesses with overseas presence, or operating projects in other countries, our worldwide DIToffices can provide information on trade issues specific to that region or country.

DITprovides cross-border e-commerce support, including connecting businesses to e-commerce advisers for tailored one-to-one advice. Contact e-exporting@trade.gov.uk for more information.

The Department of Health and Social Care have published guidance outlining the PPE export control process.

The guidance is aimed at economic operators, including manufacturers and distributors, wishing to export PPE goods to a destination outside of the EU, EFTA, or certain dependent and other territories.

4.Further business support for coronavirus (COVID-19)

You can visit the government’s business support hubfor more information

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