| “There is no other industry that is more closely integrated than the European automotive industry, with complex supply chains stretching right across the region,” explained ACEA Director General Eric-Mark Huitema.
ACEA however notes that it cannot make a full assessment of the implications of the deal until all the technical details have been made public. Only at that stage will it be clear if the deal fully reflects the interests of EU auto manufacturers and their supply chains.
“The impact of a no-deal Brexit on the EU auto industry would have been simply devastating, so we are first and foremost extremely relieved that an agreement was reached before the transition period expired,” Huitema stated.
“Nonetheless, major challenges still lie ahead, as trade in goods will be heavily impacted by barriers to trade in the form of new customs procedures that will be introduced on 1 January 2021.”
Indeed, with approximately 30,000 parts used in the construction of a single car – and many more in the construction of commercial vehicles – the automotive industry relies heavily on smooth and just-in-time delivery.
Compared to today’s situation, the deal struck by negotiators introduces much more red tape and regulatory burden for the industry.
Every year, almost 3 million motor vehicles worth €54 billion are traded between the EU and the UK, and cross-Channel trade in automotive parts accounts for almost €14 billion.
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) comment on the conclusion of a EU-UK trading agreement
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive: “We welcome today’s agreement of a new EU-UK trading agreement, which provides a platform for our future relationship. We await the details to ensure this deal works for all automotive goods and technologies, including specifics on rules of origin and future regulatory co-operation. A phase-in period is critical to help businesses on both sides adapt and efforts should now be sustained to ensure seamless implementation, with tariff-free trade fully accessible and effective for all from day one. We will continue to work closely with government to ensure all companies are as prepared as possible in the limited time left.” |
