Logistics UK estimates that Brexit is costing the UK £11.7bn annually in lost exports compared with 2019, intensifying calls for closer trading arrangements with the EU. The findings matter because supporters of greater alignment argue that reduced trade barriers could support business growth, investment and productivity.

The trade association said goods-export tonnage has fallen 20.7 per cent since the 2016 referendum, including a 15.9 per cent fall to the EU and a 37.2 per cent fall to other markets. A European Movement UK survey found 72.8 per cent of businesses reported a negative effect from Brexit, while 98.2 per cent backed restored single-market access; HMRC previously estimated EU import and export declarations created a £1.8bn administrative burden in 2022.