The aim of the EU Trade Programme is to support entrepreneurs affected by Brexit in broadening their markets. To this end, 32 million euro is available from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR). This is a European subsidy scheme for entrepreneurs who have been negatively affected by Brexit. RVO executes the BAR scheme on behalf of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (EZK). In doing so, RVO also makes use of the networks and expertise of partners such as Impuls Zeeland, the trade and sector organisations and Dutch posts abroad.
What are the benefits of joining the EU Trade Programme?
- Get access to resources and opportunities to increase your exports
- Take advantage of all services and activities free of charge
- Have a say in the content of the programme
- There are no mandatory components you have to participate in
- Expand your network in and outside the Netherlands
- Stay up-to-date on compensation schemes
The EU Trade Programme is the first part of the BAR that is available to Dutch companies. Two more compensation programmes for businesses affected by Brexit will follow later. We recommend you to register for the EU trade programme to stay informed about the compensation schemes in future phases.
How do I apply?
As an entrepreneur you can gain access to the programme when you can prove that you have been doing business with the United Kingdom since before 31 January 2021. RVO will ask you to prove with some documents from your existing records that your business has been negatively affected by Brexit.
When you apply, you will be asked to upload recent tax assessments of your turnover tax and ICPs. Depending on your situation, your customs declarations may also be required.
You can register online at www.rvo.nl/eu-handelsprogramma. Have you already gathered all the documents you need for the application? Then filling in the application form will take about 5 minutes. After submitting the form, you will be notified within 14 days whether you are admitted to the programme.
Not sure if your company qualifies for the programme? Use the registration check to find out.
Would you like more information?
You can always contact our International Trade Managers at Impuls Zeeland. They will be happy to answer any questions you have about the application procedure or about the programme.
