Small British businesses are halting shipments to Northern Ireland and the EU due to new EU customs rules and product safety regulations. These regulations require complex compliance steps, including detailed paperwork, batch numbering, and the designation of an EU or Northern Ireland-based 'authorised representative’. Many small firms, lacking resources to navigate these requirements, have chosen to cease trade rather than risk penalties. Entrepreneurs are expressing frustration over the lack of timely government communication and support. Business owners learned about the changes through social media rather than official channels, exacerbating the challenge during the busy Christmas season. While the Government claims to prioritise small businesses, the lack of tailored guidance leaves many struggling. Small businesses fear these changes favour larger corporations, potentially widening economic disparities.