The European Steel Association (EUROFER) has released a joint declaration undersigned by various European industry organizations claiming a no-deal Brexit will disrupt supply chains across all industries and risk jobs.
According to the declaration, value chains have become closely intertwined for EU and UK companies thanks to more than 40 years of economic integration and 25 years of single market programme. As a result, a no-deal Brexit will lead to chaos.
The declaration also said that delays at customs and disrupted supply of all goods, including foods and medicines, will affect communities and incur significant costs for businesses and governments. In many areas, businesses do not yet know the trading conditions they will be operating in and smaller companies are already experiencing cash flow problems in the face of the uncertainty. Jobs are at risk as businesses might have to close down or downsize, unable to deal with disruptions.
The participating organizations have called on both parties to secure a withdrawal agreement and a transition period, giving business time to adapt and to allow the EU and the UK to figure out their future relationship.
The European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic), the UK Chemical Industries Association (CIA), BusinessEurope, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), Eurelectric, FoodDrinkEurope, FuelsEurope, the European Association of Metals (Eurometaux), the European Steel Association (EUROFER), the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX), the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry (EUROCHAMBRES), EuroCommerce and European Aluminium have signed the declaration.