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<p>The Trade and Cooperation Agreement delivers on the Government's promise to take
the UK out of the EU's customs territory and to regain control of our borders. We
have always been clear that this means there will be new customs processes on goods
being moved from GB into the EU and vice versa. The Agreement will help to manage
the burden of non-tariff barriers for businesses by supporting efficient customs arrangements
covering all trade in goods, while ensuring that we will be free to regulate our own
market as we see fit. In addition, the agreement enables both sides to further reduce
costs in the longer term. For example, we have agreed to explore the possibility of
sharing import and export declaration data, including by setting up pilot programmes,
where appropriate, with a view to reducing administrative burdens on business.</p><p>Importantly,
this Agreement ensures there will be zero tariffs or quotas on trade between the UK
and the EU, where goods meet the relevant rules of origin, and includes provisions
to facilitate trade and address non-tariff barriers for UK exports to the EU and vice
versa. It will therefore provide Scottish businesses with exceptional access to the
EU's market and help them continue to trade smoothly: it is the first time the EU
has ever agreed a zero tariff, zero quota deal.</p><p>We have already struck deals
with more than 58 countries around the world, worth £198 billion a year - including
with Canada, Japan and Singapore, with many more to come. This will benefit Scottish
businesses, and create new markets for Scotland's exporters. It allows us to continue
to have a close relationship with our European friends and neighbours, while we take
our place in the world with an independent trade policy, acting as a global force
for good.</p>
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