The UK government must stop 'walking on eggshells' around improving EU trade ties, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has warned.
The new government must improve the current EU-UK trade and co-operation deal in order to boost economic growth, adds the BCC.
Businesses have criticised the additional red tape and increased costs that Brexit has placed on firms importing and exporting goods to and from the continent.
Importers of food and plants have been hit by charges associated with new Brexit border checks brought in at the end of April.
Other businesses have complained that the increasing divergence on standards, such as those around construction products, has made it more expensive for UK companies to get their products certified for sale on the continent.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC said:
'I'm not here to look backwards, I'm here to help build a better future for our business leaders and entrepreneurs. We must stop walking on eggshells and start saying it how it is. The current plan isn't working for our members.
'The EU is the UK's largest market, accounting for 42% of all our exports. Leaving the EU has made it more expensive and bureaucratic to sell our goods and services across the Channel. But better trading terms are possible if the UK government and the EU reach agreement in areas of mutual benefit for business on both sides.
'A better deal is best for everyone.'
Internet link: BCC