The UK left the European Union (EU) on 31 January 2020 but continued in most respects to be treated as if it were still part of the EU until 31 December 2020 – as provided for in the UK/EU agreement on the UK's withdrawal from the EU (the Withdrawal Agreement). Now that this 11-month "Transition Period" has ended, the full effects of this profound change in UK law and regulation apply.

On 24 December 2020, the UK and the EU agreed a trade deal: the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (the TCA). This agreement governs significant aspects of the trade relationship between the UK and EU from 1 January 2021 onwards. For more information about the TCA, see The UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement: an overview.

While the announcement of the TCA has been a source of relief for both UK and EU businesses, the changes will continue to affect construction businesses in many ways. 

The primary and secondary legislation and government guidance required to effect the UK's smooth exit from the EU are extensive and complex. In this review, it is only possible to highlight the key changes that affect construction businesses and their supply chains. 

For more detailed guidance on any specific issues, please get in touch with one of the key contacts listed at the end of this review.