17 January 2024 , 09:19
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The Government has unveiled a new plan to strengthen the supply chains for essential goods, from medicines to minerals.
The strategy, published by the Department for Business and Trade, aims to create a safer trading environment for businesses. Minister for Industry and Economic Security Nusrat Ghani said: "There are many unpredictable events that can threaten our access to vital goods, from the pandemic, Russia's illegal war in Ukraine, and the ongoing attacks in the Red Sea.
"That's why we're taking action to ensure crucial imports like medicines can reach consumers, no matter what happens around the world. With this strategy we're equipping business so they no longer have to rely on unpredictable partners for supplies of the goods that keep our country going."
The Government has announced a strategy to share key information and guidance with businesses about supply chain risks. This includes practical steps to protect against disruption.
A new online portal will be launched for businesses to report red tape or disruption. Ministers are also keen on securing more trade deals to improve importers' access to essential materials. A Critical Imports Council will be established where the Government and businesses can collaborate to strengthen supply chain resilience.
Heathrow's Chief Commercial Officer, Ross Baker, welcomed the initiative. "We welcome Government initiatives that make doing business in the UK easier and more efficient, from shoring up supply chains to streamlining cargo processes at the airport, so Heathrow can meet growing demand to import and export across the globe," he said.
The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry also supports the plan. Its Chief Executive, Richard Torbett, stated: "Recent global events like the pandemic have shown that our industry can manage and address global supply chain shocks, especially when working collaboratively with government, and this strategy supports our industry in doing so going forward."
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